Easter Parade (1948)

Easter Parade Poster

On the day before Easter in 1911, Don Hewes is crushed when his dancing partner (and object of affection) Nadine Hale refuses to start a new contract with him. To prove Nadine's not important to him, Don acquires innocent new protege Hannah Brown, vowing to make her a star in time for next year's Easter parade.

Overview
"Easter Parade" is an American musical film released in 1948, renowned for its initial music by Irving Berlin. It's directed by Charles Walters and stars famous actors of the age, Fred Astaire, Judy Garland, Peter Lawford, and Ann Miller. The film is a mix of love, comedy, and musical which takes place in the early 20th century New York City. The plot revolves around a failed love affair which eventually leads to a successful efficiency.

Plot
The story starts on Easter in 1912, when phase performers and romantic partners Don Hewes (Fred Astaire) and Nadine Hale (Ann Miller) suffer a fallout, as Nadine chooses to launch a solo career. Embittered, Don pledges to make a brand-new dancing partner, any random girl, more effective than Nadine. He happens upon a dancer named Hannah Brown (Judy Garland) and, guaranteeing to make her a star, persuades her to be his new partner.

Training and Rising Tension
Over the next year, Don trains Hannah intensively. As she grows as an entertainer, their brand-new act, "Hannah & Hewes", soars in appeal, eclipsing Nadine's popularity in New York City. Nevertheless, the plot thickens with the entrance of Don's friend, Johnny (Peter Lawford), who likewise develops feelings for Hannah. This triangle causes a strain on both the professional and individual relationships between Don, Hannah, and Johnny.

Discovery and Climax
The story takes a remarkable turn when Don, who had actually at first started the act out of spite for Nadine, recognizes he has fallen for Hannah. However his realization comes after Hannah, unaware of Don's sensations, has actually accepted Johnny's proposition of marital relationship. Don's confession forces Hannah to re-evaluate her feelings.

Ending
The movie culminates on another Easter Day, when Hannah understands her own love for Don and leaves Johnny at the altar. Don and Hannah admit their love for each other and join just in time to perform in the Easter Parade, a scene that perfectly encapsulates the film's nostalgic and romantic premise.

Critical Acclaim
Upon its release, "Easter Parade" got broad crucial honor, particularly for the wonderful efficiencies by Fred Astaire and Judy Garland and the evergreen musical arrangements by Irving Berlin. The movie's standout numbers include "Steppin' Out With My Baby", "We're a Couple of Swells", and, of course, "Easter Parade". It was the highest earning musical film of 1948 and has since stayed a beloved classic during the Easter season, celebrated for reflecting the spirit of love, redemption, and clean slates fundamental in the vacation.

In conclusion, "Easter Parade" is as much a vibrant musical owing to its memorable tunes and dance numbers, as it is a heartwarming romance. The film, buoyed by sterling efficiencies from a formidable cast, is a fun, emotional trip that magnificently portrays the ups and downs of love and aspiration in the background of performing arts, in the lively city of New York. It's no surprise the movie continues to be revered as a classic of American movie theater even after seven decades of its release.

Top Cast

  • Judy Garland (small)
    Judy Garland
    Hannah Brown
  • Fred Astaire (small)
    Fred Astaire
    Don Hewes
  • Peter Lawford (small)
    Peter Lawford
    Jonathan Harrow III
  • Ann Miller (small)
    Ann Miller
    Nadine Hale
  • Jules Munshin (small)
    Jules Munshin
    François
  • Clinton Sundberg (small)
    Clinton Sundberg
    Mike
  • Richard Beavers
    Singer ("The Girl on the Magazine Cover")
  • Lola Albright (small)
    Lola Albright
    Hat Model / Showgirl (uncredited)
  • Shirley Ballard (small)
    Shirley Ballard
    Showgirl (uncredited)
  • Edward Biby (small)
    Edward Biby
    Audience Member (uncredited)
  • June Gale (small)
    June Gale
    Minor Role (uncredited)