Just amazing! To think we gave up music and entertainment to what is pawned off as talent today. It will come back... It's just to good to go away forever.
Look for this kind of talent only in old movies for, today, it is little more than a dream remembered. Although Fred Astaire danced with some of the most talented female dancers of his day, only Eleanor Powell was his unquestioned equal. This number is the proof; take careful note of the synchronization between them, when two people tapping sound like one. The end seals it; perfectly nailed ending with the only remaining motion being Ellie's skirt. Absolutely stunning and flawless dancing!
This is so PERFECT... but Fred Astaire you were jealous....hahaha she can do whatever he does, and even better YES! Eleanor Powell is THE GODESS of tap.
You will never live long enough to see the sheer class and brilliance of the likes of this again, this only ever happens once, as near to perfection as you will ever see.
Truly wonderful, as tou will have gathered I like this.
I seduced my girlfriend with this music in my head. Now she's lft me for good after 2 years together, and all I can do is stare at this video. This is like the best dance I've ever seen.
In my opinion Eleanor Powell seems to be a little bit faster and more energetic than Fred Astaire there, and Fred more elegant in the movements, but let's have in mind that Fred was 41 and Ellie 28 in that performance. Anyway, they are far above the line of excellence, and all I can do is to enjoy once and once more that stunning performance. Many thanks silverfastse5 for sharing it!
@Crooner0810 I agree. Fred is by far more free in his movement. He seems more spontaneous, whereas she looks a lot more rehearsed. But she is definitely quicker. That could be the age, or it could just be that the elegance of his movement made him slightly slower. Either way, best performance I've ever seen.
this is the most amazing dance number. So graceful, looks effortless and two fabulous dancers Eleanor Powell and Fred Astaire. It is definitely one of my favorites of all time
LOL! We know the Nicholas Brothers were and forever will be brilliant but that does not warrant insulting brilliance thats is different from what you prefer... these two are magnificent and executed an amazing choreography with style and grace... anyone who reviews it as OK shows a lack in the appreciation of dance...
Tap is so much more complex than it looks. You have to have perfect timing and rhythm. These two are so amazingly in sync with the music and each other. Brilliant.
"She 'put 'em down like a man', no ricky-ticky-sissy stuff with Ellie. She really knocked out a tap dance in a class by herself." – Fred Astaire on Eleanor Powell
Elegance, style and sheer class! Far into the future, people will be watching this piece of film to see what perfection really was. Simply magnificent.....
a pesar de que naci en 1990 y hasta el dia de hoy miro estas peliculas y bailes sigo dicienod estos eran artistas :D y naci en la epoca equivocada -_- pero muy bueno esto
Only the much-maligned Hollywood star system could have given us such memorable movies. For ll it faults, and there were many, we will never see the likes of this again. These people worked so hard to make their art effortless - this is pure magic. I hope they're still dancing together somewhere in heaven.
@eddie123e I so agree about the old Hollywood contract system being much maligned. The stars then made excellent money for their era, but nothing like today with stars really controlling Hollywood. Even someone with questionable acting skills immediately becomes a producer today and banks even more money. Stars have too much power today and movies are only a shadow of their former glory
@tamarexxe Thank you. Too many people malign the Hollywood contract system which controlled every aspect of the lives of the stars it created. Many Hollywwod moguls did abuse the system - no system is perfect. Many blamed the Hollywood system for robbing us of the talents of Deanna Durbin. Deanna was brilliant but she was a product of the Hollywood system. By her own admission she was nothing like the screen persona which Hollywood created and it was the screen persona we fell in love with.
@eddie123e I have thought for a long time the old Hollywood contract system was better for a lot of reasons. Today's era of the "auteur" and "artiste" aka overpowered stars and directors, has produced horrnedous movies. Consequently nothing about movies or movie stars today claims the adoring hearts of thronging masses the way movies and movie stars did in the golden era. The stars were bigger and better, just not as overpaid.
@eddie123e I have thought for a long time the old Hollywood contract system was better for a lot of reasons. Today's era of the "auteur" and "artiste" aka overpowered stars and directors, has produced horrnedous movies. Consequently nothing about movies or movie stars today claims the adoring hearts of thronging masses the way movies and movie stars did in the golden era. The stars were bigger and better, just not as overpaid.
It goes without saying that Fred Astaire was probably the greatest tap dancer ever but I don't think many people realize that Eleanor Powell was probably the greatest female tap dancer ever.
Look at her solo tap dances and you will see this lady was pure TECHNIQUE and TALENT that executed every step with tireless energy and a smile that could go on for days!! WOW. Bravo!!
"Eleanor was a great dancer but when people talk about her they usually talk about this movie." Depends on how much you know of her work. I especially love Fascinatin' Rhythm, and a dance from Broadway Melody of 1938 (the video is Eleanor Powell Tapdance uploaded by Eleanorfan1992 - the part at 7 : 50 gives me chills it's so smooth, but it's all great). Also "Swinging Away" uploaded by TheTomMonday (from the movie Born to Dance); most of the same routine is in the video Powell - Born to Dance.
Frank Sinatra once said of this particular performance by Ellie and Fred "you know you can wait around and hope but I'll tell you, you'll never see the likes of this again"... and he was right. This kind of talent exist no more. If you care to visit with these two wonderful people, go to the "findagrave" web site and search by name. You can even post a memorial comment. I would provide the exact link but the new youtube filters won't allow web addresses to be posted.
The best tap dance number I ever saw was fred astaire doing bojangles of harlem in swing time but number was great as well. Eleanor was a great dancer but when people talk about her they usually talk about this movie. Fred Has many to choose from.so those saying she's better,I don't Think so! I can watch Fred Over her and anybody else anytime
@varon1979 For me it's a tie between this dance with Eleanor and his dance in Swing Time in the dance studio with Ginger Rogers (Pick Yourself Up). I even showed these routines to my elementary students years ago (recorded from tv on VCR tape!) and told them that whenever they're feeling sad, dance is the perfect mood elevator!
@davewvu1 ? I never doubted that Its nice to see a young Fred too, One seems to forget how atheltic Fred was in his early days. He is even more athletic in many ways than Gene Kelly. I love Eleanor too, but not as familiar. She is perhaps unjustly ignored in the annals of the greats of early Hollywood, which I think is the BEST
@davewvu1 I heard him say that she danced like a man but he didn't mean that in a bad way, but as an equal. He said when you danced with Cyd Charisse you stay danced.
@varon1979 What was that famous quote about Ginger Rogers? She can do anything Fred Astair does but dancing backward and in heels? That goes double for Eleanor Powell! :)
@varon1979 Although there are two sets of feet going, if you close your eyes and just listen, it sound like one set - a sign of perfect synchronization.
what's wrong with people repeating about how Fred was 'scared' of Eleanor and then even make the conclusion that she is even better than him? No I don't think so. We all know their works and we can see for ourselves. Plus there is no such words quoted directly from Fred right?
In his autobiography Fred wrote that she danced in a class by herself; as for him being 'scared' of her, that's an exaggeration - he did admit to being a little intimidated. I don't think one was 'better' than the other. They're both in the top tier of dancers and both brought things to dance that no one else could; they're irreplaceable. For instance if you look at Powell's repertoire of routines, she incorporated other kinds of dance, like ballet, into tap. They're innovators.
To the two people who voted a "thumbs down", PLEASE watch this film again, and maybe you'll see the pure joy and fabulous talent and music created entirely for your enjoyment. Celebrated such gifts and be happy! :>
No one could compare with Eleanor Powell, Fred didn't want to dance with her a lot for she was his equal+++ and she was tall compared to the others Fred danced with plus she could do whatever he did and better. She was the "tour de force" of her era. She was a unique, original tap dancer+++++. I have yet to see anyone who could challenge her range of ability. She was the liberated woman
@littlelulu1946 I heard Fred and Ginger didn't really like each other in real life.
That the two were very competitive and didn't want one to outshine the other.
Supposedly they would practice apart as much as they could and stay in each others dressing rooms and not talk much with each other until they would have to film their dances together.
I disagree with the poster below about Ginger Rodgers. I think Eleanor was the better dancer, but with her height may have gotten in the way.
@NWsubmom May I ask for the source? 'cause to my knowledge they were getting along very well, not only when still working together but also after that too (judging from their biographies, notes/letters they wrote for each other and you know Ginger even baked Fred a cake for his 80th (not sure about the number) birthday).
But if it was true that they didn't like each other, then they would be the MOST awesome actors, and I would be unable to explain the great chemistry they have too.
Ive said it before and I'll say it again, she could dance circles around ANYONE from that era, Fred , Ginger and Cyd Charisse included... Fred drops a couple steps and she just kills it 100%. My fave tapper from the pre-1980s era.
WOW. Shimmer. Great talent. love the midnight blue dance floor (ok, its blue to ME!) Imitation stars. Band in white jackets. Little cocktail tables. Why can't they make nightclubs like this anymore?? I was born in the wrong era. And the dancers....WoW again.
You are right. Thats no legend. She could destroy anything and everything that was thrown at her and often had to bring it in easier for her partners.
Fred always said candidly that the best female dancer he ever worked with was Eleanor Powell as this video is the best quality version I've seen thus far (thank you Sims Delaney-Potthoff's for your quality and care ~ it SHOWS!!!)
Amazing. I want to shake the hand of whomever shined that FLOOR! Damn it Looks Good! Powell is scary talented. Astaire always remarked as such in interviews... Thank God she's not as Smoking a Hottie as Ginger, or someone would have been out of a gig!
Masterfully put, sincerity packed dancing and entertainment epitome of all time. I first saw this in That's Entertainment Part 1, perhaps, but now Youtube can show this to anyone in the world. It is 70 years since they danced for this film, but I feel as if I were entertained right now in front of this screen. Thanks a lot, Ellie and Fred!
I grew up watching this stuff...my mother and father were big band fanatics....this is entertainment at it's finest. Hollywood needs to take a look at history and rethink their game play. Truly amazing people from this era. I am sure that we must have talent like this somewhere but it appears that the social strata of today doesn't want to be bothered...you should see the grin on my face....i am watching one video after another of these amazing people! There is a God after all
@imabukucho99 I agree, we need more stuff like this. I don't like Broadway stuff, singing and dancing stuff, but this is just as good as it gets. Sing, dance and act at its finest. I don't think anyone can dance like this now unless they were on a talent show that looked for this kind of talent. Today they want other kind of dancing and singing.
I grew up watching this stuff...my mother and father were big band fanatics....this is entertainment at it's finest. Hollywood needs to take a look at history and rethink their game play. Truly amazing people from this era. I am sure that we must have talent like this somewhere but it appears that the social strata of today doesn't want to be bothered...you should see the grin on my face....i am watching one video after another of these amazing people! There is a God afterall
I lived through the years when Fred was so popular. I always knew women like Eleanor Powell could dance like this, but I never thought men could until Fred Astaire. He was a one off and will never be replaced.
With all due respect to Gene Kelly, Ginger Rogers, etc, these (Fred and Ellie) are the two best dancers that ever lived, and I would even rank Eleanor Powell in front of Fred Astaire.
The genius of this pair of troupers lay in their God given talent and theri sheer professinalism in that they rehearsed and rehearsed until they achieved this level of perfection.
This is just brilliant. They dont make them like this anymore. Choregraphy and timing just perfect. modern day dancing with the stars program cant beat these guys. So enjoyable to watch. Eleanor dresses like a real lady - nice to see!!!
Ellie was culled the title the world's greatest tap dancer or "queen of tap" within 1 year of learning to tap at the tender age of16.Wow! Fred came to MGM after the last 2 Ginger movies lost money. He admitted to being afraid to dance with Ellie. She did things no other human has ever done. He was a ballroom tapper , Ellie a rhythm tapper. He hired the father of rhythm tap, John Bubbles to teach him. Ellie got the lions share of dancing time in this # and in this 1st ever $million dance movie.
Fantastic. If you get a chance to see Dance Legends in Ontario (Huron Country) they do a great job on this routine. It's a fantastic play by Alex Mustakas
Powell is wonderful relaxed in this. I love those little come hither head bobs she gives Astaire. She makes her movements big and easy. You can see what a superbly talented athlete she is. And there's something All-American in her movements......clearly not from any other continent than this. Astaire, a generous genius, allows her to be the center of attention. Wow.
I would agree with the Nicholas Brothers - Eleanor Powell was the best! Graceful,talented, beautiful, classy, sweet, lovely - everything missing from today's talent - except perhaps on Broadway, if anyone can afford to go these days.
@opelske are you here to appreciate the video or just get on like a nosey neighbour. who gives a shit what who did to whom, judge not lest ye be judged.
Fabulous, graceful, a wonderful sight. Thank God for film that saved this for those who were not living at the time. They dance beautifully together and apart. Both are the best dancers ever and I think Eleanor Powell was Astaire's best dance partner. They make it look so easy - and they obviously love what they are doing every time they dance.
he seems to look up and dance with confidence, i feel. though she never looks down, i'd prefer to view his shy moments striking similarities to humility--allowing her to shine--rather than incompetency or whatever. mans a pimp.
o. m. g. Those turning shuffle-graboffs are intense!! Holy Jesus, Son of God! That...ooh...mmm....goodness. Freak-ass. Crazy freak-ass tap god hoof omg.
Sinatra was right when he said "You can wait around and hope and wish but we won't see the likes of this again" Astaire and Powell simply the very best of all-time PERIOD.......
Hate to say it, but she was "dancing down" to Fred Astair's level here. One take, and why not? After all, their feet stayed pretty much in contact with the floor. For Ellie, this was nothing.
This is right and is often missed about this routine. She is in 2nd gear the whole routine so Fred can keep up. Check out their eyes (hers on him, his on the floor)...
By golly, you're right. I hadn't noticed her partner's eyes - watching her closely, all-out to keep up with her...and the partner is Fred Astaire!! Wow, I could watch this vid over and over - and come to think, I have.
You are so right about him looking down the floor while she looks at him. She was GREAT! I can't believe she was married to Glen Ford. At that time he wasn't famous so she supported both of them. Not sure what happened perhaps his Ego got in the way.
I think it was more his cheating ways - it seems he had many affairs. Too bad, Eleanor was so lovely and decent. Visit her son's website - very interesting.
Nobody "danced down" to Fred Astaire's level. They both look like they are having fun because they finally found a partner who can keep up with the other. She was always fast, but she never displayed as much artistry in any of her other films as she does here and I would argue that Fred Astaire is the reason for that (because he has art in every film he ever made and with every partner he every had).
New Style of Tap: /watch?v=aV8tcwCEq-Q
tapvideos123 6 days ago
Light as air and faster than lightening. Bravo!
jemjean 2 weeks ago
1:34. That's what sent shivers down my spine
gigglybrownye 2 weeks ago
Creo que fué la mejor pareja de baile de Fred, O no?.(I think it was the best dance partner of Fred. Or not?)
charlesnorte 3 weeks ago
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Just amazing! To think we gave up music and entertainment to what is pawned off as talent today. It will come back... It's just to good to go away forever.
55DepotStreet 1 month ago
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LINDO , LINDO , LINDO FRED and ELEAONOR THE BEST (Brasil)
nilsp57 1 month ago in playlist MEMORY LANE
THE BEST CLASSIC
dzakusia 1 month ago
Tap is i think the best dance, and with these dancers, they made it the best!
1111Smilez 1 month ago
No one has ever come near to this. Pure Perfection.
bairns1234 1 month ago
just fantastic
yorks900dec 1 month ago in playlist Favorite videos
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the only part i dont understand is how nobody in the audience was standing up or yelling at the end of that lol
LilTapsta 2 months ago
SIMPLY AWESOME !
lindalindaglearlear 2 months ago
Look for this kind of talent only in old movies for, today, it is little more than a dream remembered. Although Fred Astaire danced with some of the most talented female dancers of his day, only Eleanor Powell was his unquestioned equal. This number is the proof; take careful note of the synchronization between them, when two people tapping sound like one. The end seals it; perfectly nailed ending with the only remaining motion being Ellie's skirt. Absolutely stunning and flawless dancing!
davewvu1 2 months ago
Keep in mind, she is doing it backwards and in heels!!!!!
ZEDSDEAD1161 2 months ago
1:56 OMFG!!!! I just DIED *_*!!!
MiyuGoreLivingDead 2 months ago
This is so PERFECT... but Fred Astaire you were jealous....hahaha she can do whatever he does, and even better YES! Eleanor Powell is THE GODESS of tap.
MiyuGoreLivingDead 2 months ago
She is a graceful vision.
ugoughiful 2 months ago
They make it look so easy,as if gliding on diamonds, but god i bet they worked their socks off. May they rest in peace.
britturk123 3 months ago
GREAT!
kolumb21 3 months ago
You will never live long enough to see the sheer class and brilliance of the likes of this again, this only ever happens once, as near to perfection as you will ever see.
Truly wonderful, as tou will have gathered I like this.
eddgregg 4 months ago
incredible and unreachable.
giampi255 4 months ago
I seduced my girlfriend with this music in my head. Now she's lft me for good after 2 years together, and all I can do is stare at this video. This is like the best dance I've ever seen.
Balthichou 4 months ago
In my opinion Eleanor Powell seems to be a little bit faster and more energetic than Fred Astaire there, and Fred more elegant in the movements, but let's have in mind that Fred was 41 and Ellie 28 in that performance. Anyway, they are far above the line of excellence, and all I can do is to enjoy once and once more that stunning performance. Many thanks silverfastse5 for sharing it!
Crooner0810 4 months ago
@Crooner0810 I agree. Fred is by far more free in his movement. He seems more spontaneous, whereas she looks a lot more rehearsed. But she is definitely quicker. That could be the age, or it could just be that the elegance of his movement made him slightly slower. Either way, best performance I've ever seen.
jonnydumpy14 4 months ago
beautiful
aaroblero 4 months ago
最高のタップダンス、ﾌﾚｯﾄﾞ･ｱｽﾃｱ と ｴﾚﾉｱ･ﾊﾟｳｴﾙ~~ﾋﾞｷﾞﾝ･ｻﾞ･ﾋﾞｷﾞﾝ～～ひたすら唸る!
blackandtanful 4 months ago
so well synchrinized!
purplypassion 5 months ago
soo bad ass!
aaroblero 5 months ago
Oddly hypnotic...
AndySan 5 months ago
Yes sir. That was ENTERTAINMENT
Stunning, classy.
Love the finish!
Thank you for posting this.
corfan99 5 months ago
Awesome!!!
Elisaunt 5 months ago
this is the most amazing dance number. So graceful, looks effortless and two fabulous dancers Eleanor Powell and Fred Astaire. It is definitely one of my favorites of all time
levimom 5 months ago
Not quite as good as the "Nicholas Bros" but ok
nmjkuiopty 6 months ago
@nmjkuiopty
LOL! We know the Nicholas Brothers were and forever will be brilliant but that does not warrant insulting brilliance thats is different from what you prefer... these two are magnificent and executed an amazing choreography with style and grace... anyone who reviews it as OK shows a lack in the appreciation of dance...
kashiaroundtheworld 5 months ago
There were so many great dance numbers, it is really difficult for me to say which one is the best but this is at the top of my list.
kageees2276 6 months ago
which three dufas' disliked this...what the hell is there to dislike, its the best dance routine ever.
Vevey2004 6 months ago
Fred was good but next to Eleanor Powell he was almost not there.
paultomzak 6 months ago
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Tap is so much more complex than it looks. You have to have perfect timing and rhythm. These two are so amazingly in sync with the music and each other. Brilliant.
zolluuu 6 months ago
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zolluuu 6 months ago
Wonderful you will never see anything like this again
Joray2b 6 months ago
"She 'put 'em down like a man', no ricky-ticky-sissy stuff with Ellie. She really knocked out a tap dance in a class by herself." – Fred Astaire on Eleanor Powell
digitalPublius 6 months ago
What I wouldn't give to be able to travel back in time...
focusfuri75 6 months ago
@focusfuri75
You and me both.
Stokernyc 6 months ago
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MrCombat1965 2 months ago
@focusfuri75 I'll also join the crowd.
MrCombat1965 2 months ago
Elegance, style and sheer class! Far into the future, people will be watching this piece of film to see what perfection really was. Simply magnificent.....
Witless544 6 months ago
3 people missed the "like" button
jazzyspazzrawr 7 months ago
a pesar de que naci en 1990 y hasta el dia de hoy miro estas peliculas y bailes sigo dicienod estos eran artistas :D y naci en la epoca equivocada -_- pero muy bueno esto
deowiz 7 months ago
they are angels!!!!!!!!!!!! omg!!!!!!!!!
hell0hkitty 7 months ago
Only the much-maligned Hollywood star system could have given us such memorable movies. For ll it faults, and there were many, we will never see the likes of this again. These people worked so hard to make their art effortless - this is pure magic. I hope they're still dancing together somewhere in heaven.
eddie123e 7 months ago 4
@eddie123e I so agree about the old Hollywood contract system being much maligned. The stars then made excellent money for their era, but nothing like today with stars really controlling Hollywood. Even someone with questionable acting skills immediately becomes a producer today and banks even more money. Stars have too much power today and movies are only a shadow of their former glory
tamarexxe 2 weeks ago
@tamarexxe Thank you. Too many people malign the Hollywood contract system which controlled every aspect of the lives of the stars it created. Many Hollywwod moguls did abuse the system - no system is perfect. Many blamed the Hollywood system for robbing us of the talents of Deanna Durbin. Deanna was brilliant but she was a product of the Hollywood system. By her own admission she was nothing like the screen persona which Hollywood created and it was the screen persona we fell in love with.
eddie123e 2 weeks ago
@eddie123e I have thought for a long time the old Hollywood contract system was better for a lot of reasons. Today's era of the "auteur" and "artiste" aka overpowered stars and directors, has produced horrnedous movies. Consequently nothing about movies or movie stars today claims the adoring hearts of thronging masses the way movies and movie stars did in the golden era. The stars were bigger and better, just not as overpaid.
tamarexxe 2 weeks ago
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@eddie123e I have thought for a long time the old Hollywood contract system was better for a lot of reasons. Today's era of the "auteur" and "artiste" aka overpowered stars and directors, has produced horrnedous movies. Consequently nothing about movies or movie stars today claims the adoring hearts of thronging masses the way movies and movie stars did in the golden era. The stars were bigger and better, just not as overpaid.
tamarexxe 2 weeks ago
This is GREAT TV Stuff!!!
MsPokeyman 8 months ago
I just can't stop watching this
kageees2276 8 months ago
wonderful. thanks with all my heart for uploading
7happyjack 8 months ago
It goes without saying that Fred Astaire was probably the greatest tap dancer ever but I don't think many people realize that Eleanor Powell was probably the greatest female tap dancer ever.
Look at her solo tap dances and you will see this lady was pure TECHNIQUE and TALENT that executed every step with tireless energy and a smile that could go on for days!! WOW. Bravo!!
Cnat123 8 months ago
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"Eleanor was a great dancer but when people talk about her they usually talk about this movie." Depends on how much you know of her work. I especially love Fascinatin' Rhythm, and a dance from Broadway Melody of 1938 (the video is Eleanor Powell Tapdance uploaded by Eleanorfan1992 - the part at 7 : 50 gives me chills it's so smooth, but it's all great). Also "Swinging Away" uploaded by TheTomMonday (from the movie Born to Dance); most of the same routine is in the video Powell - Born to Dance.
EandMetal 8 months ago
@ukbentley Almost one shot in this sequence only one cut-bloody wondrous!!
thehellhecould 8 months ago 2
Frank Sinatra once said of this particular performance by Ellie and Fred "you know you can wait around and hope but I'll tell you, you'll never see the likes of this again"... and he was right. This kind of talent exist no more. If you care to visit with these two wonderful people, go to the "findagrave" web site and search by name. You can even post a memorial comment. I would provide the exact link but the new youtube filters won't allow web addresses to be posted.
hirize1 8 months ago
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EandMetal 8 months ago
Pure Magic!!!
hirize1 8 months ago
The best tap dance number I ever saw was fred astaire doing bojangles of harlem in swing time but number was great as well. Eleanor was a great dancer but when people talk about her they usually talk about this movie. Fred Has many to choose from.so those saying she's better,I don't Think so! I can watch Fred Over her and anybody else anytime
nisreal 8 months ago
IF this is not THE BEST dance number in History...I don,t know what it may be!!. Pure and simple another example of FINE ART!!. Matt
varon1979 8 months ago 22
@varon1979 For me it's a tie between this dance with Eleanor and his dance in Swing Time in the dance studio with Ginger Rogers (Pick Yourself Up). I even showed these routines to my elementary students years ago (recorded from tv on VCR tape!) and told them that whenever they're feeling sad, dance is the perfect mood elevator!
TriciaK1000 4 months ago
@varon1979 Eleanor Powell was too good I think it made Fred nervous.
tamarexxe 3 weeks ago
@tamarexxe By Fred Astaire's own admission, Eleanor Powell was his equal on the dance floor.
davewvu1 3 weeks ago
@davewvu1 ? I never doubted that Its nice to see a young Fred too, One seems to forget how atheltic Fred was in his early days. He is even more athletic in many ways than Gene Kelly. I love Eleanor too, but not as familiar. She is perhaps unjustly ignored in the annals of the greats of early Hollywood, which I think is the BEST
tamarexxe 3 weeks ago
@davewvu1 I heard him say that she danced like a man but he didn't mean that in a bad way, but as an equal. He said when you danced with Cyd Charisse you stay danced.
51Saffron 2 weeks ago
@tamarexxe HEHE, maybe u are right- Fred Astaire thought that she was better than ANY man !!- Matt
varon1979 2 weeks ago
@varon1979 What was that famous quote about Ginger Rogers? She can do anything Fred Astair does but dancing backward and in heels? That goes double for Eleanor Powell! :)
tamarexxe 2 weeks ago
@varon1979 Although there are two sets of feet going, if you close your eyes and just listen, it sound like one set - a sign of perfect synchronization.
motherninja 1 week ago
So much talent...I thought for sure my computer would explode!
thecommentmonster 9 months ago
what's wrong with people repeating about how Fred was 'scared' of Eleanor and then even make the conclusion that she is even better than him? No I don't think so. We all know their works and we can see for ourselves. Plus there is no such words quoted directly from Fred right?
lesshairagain 9 months ago
@lesshairagain
In his autobiography Fred wrote that she danced in a class by herself; as for him being 'scared' of her, that's an exaggeration - he did admit to being a little intimidated. I don't think one was 'better' than the other. They're both in the top tier of dancers and both brought things to dance that no one else could; they're irreplaceable. For instance if you look at Powell's repertoire of routines, she incorporated other kinds of dance, like ballet, into tap. They're innovators.
EandMetal 9 months ago
How much does it make you want to weep when you realise that the likes of these wonderfully talented people will never be seen again?
Today's 'stars' can't hold a candle to them.
fishbelch 9 months ago
Magnificent. They were each other's greatest partners.
UncleCharlieOakley 9 months ago
and they say white people can't dance.
hiemsoshi 9 months ago 2
I know people usually say this to be stupid but I honestly do feel that 2 people missed the like button.
mjay0019 10 months ago
@mjay0019 I was thinking the same :)
burlescaya 9 months ago
To the two people who voted a "thumbs down", PLEASE watch this film again, and maybe you'll see the pure joy and fabulous talent and music created entirely for your enjoyment. Celebrated such gifts and be happy! :>
chettmansberger 10 months ago
No one could compare with Eleanor Powell, Fred didn't want to dance with her a lot for she was his equal+++ and she was tall compared to the others Fred danced with plus she could do whatever he did and better. She was the "tour de force" of her era. She was a unique, original tap dancer+++++. I have yet to see anyone who could challenge her range of ability. She was the liberated woman
littlelulu1946 10 months ago 10
@littlelulu1946 I heard Fred and Ginger didn't really like each other in real life.
That the two were very competitive and didn't want one to outshine the other.
Supposedly they would practice apart as much as they could and stay in each others dressing rooms and not talk much with each other until they would have to film their dances together.
I disagree with the poster below about Ginger Rodgers. I think Eleanor was the better dancer, but with her height may have gotten in the way.
NWsubmom 9 months ago
@NWsubmom May I ask for the source? 'cause to my knowledge they were getting along very well, not only when still working together but also after that too (judging from their biographies, notes/letters they wrote for each other and you know Ginger even baked Fred a cake for his 80th (not sure about the number) birthday).
But if it was true that they didn't like each other, then they would be the MOST awesome actors, and I would be unable to explain the great chemistry they have too.
lesshairagain 9 months ago
A fantastic clip of tap dancing at it's very best.
TheMaisie80 11 months ago
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how could Ginger ever compete she was hen toed and self concious!!
anziotiamo 11 months ago
how could Ginger ever compare she was hen toed and self concious!!
anziotiamo 11 months ago
@mdshullaw52 His dance partners had to do it in high heels and backwards.
ZEDSDEAD1161 11 months ago
Sort of off-topic: Cary Grant envied that white suit ensemble Fred was wearing. Fred was one hell of a stylish chap.
80scouplerules 1 year ago 3
we will never see their like again
vindicari 1 year ago
Utterly spellbinding to witness such awe inspiring talent.
Thanks for posting this wonderful clip.
Bilton1956 1 year ago
Ive said it before and I'll say it again, she could dance circles around ANYONE from that era, Fred , Ginger and Cyd Charisse included... Fred drops a couple steps and she just kills it 100%. My fave tapper from the pre-1980s era.
TapLove 1 year ago
As Mr Sinatra said, " you can wait around & hope, but you'll not see the likes of this, again." AMEN Sir. Wolfsky9
Wolfsky9 1 year ago
60 years or so had passed but still considered the very best tap dance ever by these two gifted dancers;for them were just like walking in park..
llanto75 1 year ago
What happened to those times? No one dances with such charm and elegance any more. How sad to know those times are over :(
maggiekos 1 year ago
WOW. Shimmer. Great talent. love the midnight blue dance floor (ok, its blue to ME!) Imitation stars. Band in white jackets. Little cocktail tables. Why can't they make nightclubs like this anymore?? I was born in the wrong era. And the dancers....WoW again.
windstorm1000 1 year ago
Legend has it she had to tone down her dancing because she was betther than he was. This is MGM in all its glory.
kryptonbear 1 year ago
@kryptonbear
You are right. Thats no legend. She could destroy anything and everything that was thrown at her and often had to bring it in easier for her partners.
TapLove 1 year ago
Fred always said candidly that the best female dancer he ever worked with was Eleanor Powell as this video is the best quality version I've seen thus far (thank you Sims Delaney-Potthoff's for your quality and care ~ it SHOWS!!!)
Amazing. I want to shake the hand of whomever shined that FLOOR! Damn it Looks Good! Powell is scary talented. Astaire always remarked as such in interviews... Thank God she's not as Smoking a Hottie as Ginger, or someone would have been out of a gig!
geniusesareweird 1 year ago 2
Masterfully put, sincerity packed dancing and entertainment epitome of all time. I first saw this in That's Entertainment Part 1, perhaps, but now Youtube can show this to anyone in the world. It is 70 years since they danced for this film, but I feel as if I were entertained right now in front of this screen. Thanks a lot, Ellie and Fred!
eijigosen 1 year ago 2
I grew up watching this stuff...my mother and father were big band fanatics....this is entertainment at it's finest. Hollywood needs to take a look at history and rethink their game play. Truly amazing people from this era. I am sure that we must have talent like this somewhere but it appears that the social strata of today doesn't want to be bothered...you should see the grin on my face....i am watching one video after another of these amazing people! There is a God after all
imabukucho99 1 year ago
@imabukucho99 I agree, we need more stuff like this. I don't like Broadway stuff, singing and dancing stuff, but this is just as good as it gets. Sing, dance and act at its finest. I don't think anyone can dance like this now unless they were on a talent show that looked for this kind of talent. Today they want other kind of dancing and singing.
khamdoun 1 year ago
I grew up watching this stuff...my mother and father were big band fanatics....this is entertainment at it's finest. Hollywood needs to take a look at history and rethink their game play. Truly amazing people from this era. I am sure that we must have talent like this somewhere but it appears that the social strata of today doesn't want to be bothered...you should see the grin on my face....i am watching one video after another of these amazing people! There is a God afterall
imabukucho99 1 year ago
Thanks for the great quality! :)
Classic1940s 1 year ago
I lived through the years when Fred was so popular. I always knew women like Eleanor Powell could dance like this, but I never thought men could until Fred Astaire. He was a one off and will never be replaced.
onebaud 1 year ago
How easy do these two performs make this style of dancing be - but it is hard as hell.
lynjef7 1 year ago
With all due respect to Gene Kelly, Ginger Rogers, etc, these (Fred and Ellie) are the two best dancers that ever lived, and I would even rank Eleanor Powell in front of Fred Astaire.
Dobermite 1 year ago 2
totally confusing for a 21st C man.
casper2095 1 year ago
so beautiful..... makes me feel so proud to be of the same species!
jags1972 1 year ago
I love this tap number. Just absolute pure talent and alot of work, and I mean alot of work.
tmax45R 1 year ago
...and on the 7th day God rested, and he watched Fred Astaire dance...thus causing him to re-invent the meaning of life.
Siiiiiiiidestep 1 year ago 52
@Siiiiiiiidestep Nicely put!
charade97 1 year ago
@Siiiiiiiidestep fred astaire said eleanor powell was the best dancer he had ever seen in his life
vindicari 1 year ago
Insuperáveis!
JCarfil 1 year ago
Sheer joy to watch two incredibly talented and likable people doing what they do best, and loving every minute of it. Thank you for posting this!
praguephotog 1 year ago
I will never tire of watching this routine. I remain speechless as this kind of
talent does not exist anymore. I Love Fred and Eleanore!!!!!!
potterabbit 1 year ago
Jesus Christ...O.O
ZahraAlquimia 1 year ago
The genius of this pair of troupers lay in their God given talent and theri sheer professinalism in that they rehearsed and rehearsed until they achieved this level of perfection.
Sheer genius.
eddie123e 1 year ago
This is just brilliant. They dont make them like this anymore. Choregraphy and timing just perfect. modern day dancing with the stars program cant beat these guys. So enjoyable to watch. Eleanor dresses like a real lady - nice to see!!!
sandy99252 1 year ago
You'll never see the likesof this again.
NFitalianGuy 1 year ago
One of the greatest screen dances of all time. I never get tired of looking at it.
MrJosephRizzo 1 year ago
I love this tap dancing. It brings happiness because the dancers seem happy and the music is jolly. So much talent too.
estrella77744 1 year ago
this is about as close to heaven as you can get on earth , perfection , AAAAAA++++++
bearcub410 1 year ago
May I misquote a famous movie star: "...you can look and look [all you want] but you'll never see the likes of this again." Perfection!!
Handiman544 1 year ago
¡No me canso de verlo! Fred Astaire me gusta cada día más y Eleanor Powell me parece una maravilla. Pena que cosas como éstas ya desaparecieron....
fjaos 1 year ago
Ellie was culled the title the world's greatest tap dancer or "queen of tap" within 1 year of learning to tap at the tender age of16.Wow! Fred came to MGM after the last 2 Ginger movies lost money. He admitted to being afraid to dance with Ellie. She did things no other human has ever done. He was a ballroom tapper , Ellie a rhythm tapper. He hired the father of rhythm tap, John Bubbles to teach him. Ellie got the lions share of dancing time in this # and in this 1st ever $million dance movie.
hajune 1 year ago
American entertainment at its very best.
pinkhighway 1 year ago 2
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Sheriff little Doodle fired a shot at you whoooooo woooooo!
sheriffdoodle 1 year ago
Greatest Tap Dance Number of All Time......Eleanor Powell will ALWAYS be my queen!
cubanbach 1 year ago 2
Thank you SO much!
Mamasan41 1 year ago
fantastic
bubblybooyou 1 year ago
thank you for the memory
Tigertooo 1 year ago
more innocent times. elegance and grace. wonderful.
titaflan 1 year ago
Eleanor was an excellent dancer. Astaire was superb!
paulbrendanfagan09 1 year ago
lol
pinochet222 1 year ago
Fantastic. If you get a chance to see Dance Legends in Ontario (Huron Country) they do a great job on this routine. It's a fantastic play by Alex Mustakas
JCVH60 1 year ago
They are utterly fantastic!! WOW!
mgesteira 1 year ago
This is my favorite video, You will never see quality dancing like this again.
Nor the talent.
rdpharris 1 year ago
im 23 and i have loved older movies froma very young age, this does something that no movie today could ever do, I could watch this forever
silvershields 1 year ago 2
Powell is wonderful relaxed in this. I love those little come hither head bobs she gives Astaire. She makes her movements big and easy. You can see what a superbly talented athlete she is. And there's something All-American in her movements......clearly not from any other continent than this. Astaire, a generous genius, allows her to be the center of attention. Wow.
mobydoug 1 year ago 3
Mannnnnn, I just sit here watching this with a big grin on my face......
jericsynergy 1 year ago
I hope Heaven is as good - thank you so much for bringing this awesome talent back for us to appreciate !
MsBedwell 1 year ago
Have a look at my Fred Astare video please.a comment would be appreciated thanks people.
fuzzduck2007 3 years ago
Wow! This is really great. Both so gifted.
swanningaround 3 years ago
I would agree with the Nicholas Brothers - Eleanor Powell was the best! Graceful,talented, beautiful, classy, sweet, lovely - everything missing from today's talent - except perhaps on Broadway, if anyone can afford to go these days.
opelske 3 years ago
@opelske are you here to appreciate the video or just get on like a nosey neighbour. who gives a shit what who did to whom, judge not lest ye be judged.
vindicari 1 year ago
I've heard it said from people who saw her perform that she was just so unbelievabley fast and had great control of her upper body. A great talent!
opelske 3 years ago
Fabulous, graceful, a wonderful sight. Thank God for film that saved this for those who were not living at the time. They dance beautifully together and apart. Both are the best dancers ever and I think Eleanor Powell was Astaire's best dance partner. They make it look so easy - and they obviously love what they are doing every time they dance.
opelske 3 years ago
Can one say better than the best? Astaire in a bio says Eleanor Powell was the only one as good as himself.
They both make dancing look effortless. 5stars
Creaky1964 3 years ago
Really ! That was sublime !
miltsar 3 years ago
Thank God for celluloid.
DawnWeatherby 3 years ago 3
he is a master piece...
podek77 3 years ago
supreme
Ladybug1923 3 years ago
Possibly the best tap dancing EVER !!!!!
There are no words to describe this . THANKS
Bumblebee38 3 years ago
All of the above I agree with and I'll add that their respective costumes are so becoming, elegant and contribute a lot to the gracefulness.
Khamomil 3 years ago
he seems to look up and dance with confidence, i feel. though she never looks down, i'd prefer to view his shy moments striking similarities to humility--allowing her to shine--rather than incompetency or whatever. mans a pimp.
fleecah 3 years ago
o. m. g. Those turning shuffle-graboffs are intense!! Holy Jesus, Son of God! That...ooh...mmm....goodness. Freak-ass. Crazy freak-ass tap god hoof omg.
TapLove 3 years ago
Sinatra was right when he said "You can wait around and hope and wish but we won't see the likes of this again" Astaire and Powell simply the very best of all-time PERIOD.......
Etnalleb 3 years ago 2
Fantastic! Two of THE best dancers ever! Fred's so suave and cool and Eleanor's so sweet and pretty. Love em both!
beatlequeen06 3 years ago
Astaire is marvelous, but Eleanor Powell is dreamy to watch. She is fluid. You want to take her in your arms, simply while watching her.
PRR5406 3 years ago 4
From the year 1940 - a very good year. (for me)
I was born then.
So good to look back at the time.
OldDogNewTrick 3 years ago
Simply: the second half of the greatest dance routine ever staged - never will be surpassed.
Thank you.
shafuffuff 3 years ago
Tap Dancing というよりは Top Dancingですねｗ
smokingmix 3 years ago
Hate to say it, but she was "dancing down" to Fred Astair's level here. One take, and why not? After all, their feet stayed pretty much in contact with the floor. For Ellie, this was nothing.
whupass95 3 years ago
This is right and is often missed about this routine. She is in 2nd gear the whole routine so Fred can keep up. Check out their eyes (hers on him, his on the floor)...
Gobbleknoll 3 years ago
By golly, you're right. I hadn't noticed her partner's eyes - watching her closely, all-out to keep up with her...and the partner is Fred Astaire!! Wow, I could watch this vid over and over - and come to think, I have.
whupass95 3 years ago
You are so right about him looking down the floor while she looks at him. She was GREAT! I can't believe she was married to Glen Ford. At that time he wasn't famous so she supported both of them. Not sure what happened perhaps his Ego got in the way.
castalia60 3 years ago
I think it was more his cheating ways - it seems he had many affairs. Too bad, Eleanor was so lovely and decent. Visit her son's website - very interesting.
opelske 3 years ago
Nobody "danced down" to Fred Astaire's level. They both look like they are having fun because they finally found a partner who can keep up with the other. She was always fast, but she never displayed as much artistry in any of her other films as she does here and I would argue that Fred Astaire is the reason for that (because he has art in every film he ever made and with every partner he every had).
billybee99 3 years ago 5
these two are amazing. they make it look so easy. these were two perfectionists that could easily keep up with eachother. its just awsome to watch.
catsim84 3 years ago