March 17, 1970

A Damsel In Distress (1937) ****

This neglected little gem is among Fred Astaire's most charming films. Set in a bucolic English countryside, it gently satirizes local aristocrats and their American guests. Its musical score might well be George Gershwin's finest among those he wrote directly for the screen. Outstanding songs include:

"I Can't Be Bothered Now" **
"The Jolly Tar And The Milkmaid" **
"Put Me To The Test" **
"Stiff Upper Lip" ***
"Things Are Looking Up" ***
"A Foggy Day" ***
"Nice Work If You Can Get It" (song) ***
"Ah! Che A Voi Perdoni Iddio" **
"Nice Work If You Can Get It" (dance) **