You Were Never Lovelier (1942)

In the realm of motion picture dance, Ginger Rogers will be forever regarded as Fred Astaire's soul mate. But in Hollywood, such relationships rarely last, and the dissolution of the Astaire-Rogers "marriage" in 1939 allowed Astaire the freedom to pursue cinematic flings with a succession of lovely partners, often rejuvenating his image and his art. In the post-Rogers era, one of his most successful and exciting screen liaisons was with the ravishing Rita Hayworth. Young, fresh, and seemingly unaware of her devastating beauty, Hayworth put a newfound spring in Astaire's step, and although their blissful union produced only two films, their magic endures.

You Were Never Lovelier describes Hayworth to a T. Although she would achieve international renown as the sensual Gilda four years later, Hayworth exhibits a wholesome purity in this film that's irresistible. Exquisitely photographed by Ted Tetzlaff (Notorious) and draped in stunning gowns by Irene, the actress portrays Maria Acuna, second eldest daughter of Argentine hotelier Eduardo Acuna (Adolphe Menjou).

Papa Acuna rigidly adheres to an old family tradition that requires women to marry in order of birth, and Maria's refusal to compromise her storybook romantic notions keeps her maddeningly single—much to the chagrin of her already affianced younger siblings. Eduardo believes if he writes Maria anonymous love notes and sends a steady stream of orchids to her door, he'll pique her interest and arouse her senses. And when she's finally fallen hook, line, and sinker for this "secret admirer," he'll engage an eligible bachelor to assume the role.

Astaire and Hayworth enjoy a marvelous rapport in their romantic scenes as well, with his affability nicely complimenting her shyness. (Of course, once they begin swaying to the music, their 20-year age difference literally melts away, and they're transformed into a Hollywood dream couple.) The frothy script allows their personalities to shine, and although the story occasionally stalls, Fred and Rita's palpable magnetism smoothes over any rough patches. Solid work from a veteran supporting cast also enlivens the film, with Menjou especially engaging as the cantankerous patriarch.

Fred and Rita never go out of style, and You Were Never Lovelier retains its innocent charm six decades after its initial release. Although Columbia musicals can never rival those made by MGM, this slick, sophisticated effort stands as one of the studio's finer efforts and appropriately honors its beloved stars.

Digitallyobsessed

DVD Extras:
Theatrical Trailers
.Gilda
.The Lady from Shanghai
.A Man for All Seasons