If you like Betty Hutton, or you like Fred Astaire, you'll get some pleasure from Let's Dance, because both stars are in top form, even if the movie isn't a smash. It's too plot-heavy, for one thing. It's the old one about those blue-blood in-laws who look down on show business folk, and want to keep our heroine (a war widow) away from her little son. Fred plays the guy who performed in USO shows with her during the war, and who's been crazy about her ever since.
Let's Dance presents Fred as somewhat subordinate.. The plot is all about Betty's character; the numbers play to her strengths rather than his. Paramount knew all about how to present Hutton. But they seem to spend little time devising strong numbers or a strong character for Astaire.
Nonetheless, there are some enjoyable song numbers. There are five, but the film could have stood more. A wonderful ballad, "Why Fight The Feeling", is not given enough of a showcase. Could've been a highlight, particularly if it had been sung to Betty by Fred, with an accompanying dance number.
Lastly, who thought Hutton and Astaire would make a good team? Not that it was impossible, but more cleverness was required in presenting this odd couple. Their hugely different images - brash vs. subtle, brassy vs. classy - needed to be addressed. We should have been eased into it, given reasons why they belonged together despite their seeming incompatibility.
Let's Dance presents Fred as somewhat subordinate.. The plot is all about Betty's character; the numbers play to her strengths rather than his. Paramount knew all about how to present Hutton. But they seem to spend little time devising strong numbers or a strong character for Astaire.
Nonetheless, there are some enjoyable song numbers. There are five, but the film could have stood more. A wonderful ballad, "Why Fight The Feeling", is not given enough of a showcase. Could've been a highlight, particularly if it had been sung to Betty by Fred, with an accompanying dance number.
Lastly, who thought Hutton and Astaire would make a good team? Not that it was impossible, but more cleverness was required in presenting this odd couple. Their hugely different images - brash vs. subtle, brassy vs. classy - needed to be addressed. We should have been eased into it, given reasons why they belonged together despite their seeming incompatibility.