FOLLOW THE FLEET

Cinemavixion Review

Mark Sandrich's "Follow the Fleet" (1936) is a quintessential RKO musical, sparkling with the inimitable charm of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Set against the backdrop of San Francisco during a naval visit, the film follows Astaire as a sailor attempting to rekindle a romance with Rogers, his former dancing partner. The narrative weaves a charming tale of love, dance, and lighthearted complications, bolstered by a witty script and Irving Berlin's memorable songs, including the Oscar-nominated "Let's Face the Music and Dance." Astaire and Rogers deliver their signature breathtaking choreography, showcasing a chemistry that remains unparalleled. While the plot itself is secondary to the musical numbers, it provides a sufficient framework for their dazzling performances. Critically acclaimed upon release and bolstered by a strong audience reception, as evidenced by its 83% score on Rotten Tomatoes and a 7.1/10 on IMDb, "Follow the Fleet" stands as a testament to the golden age of Hollywood musicals and the enduring magic of its leading duo.