Introducing sound in the late 1920s and 1930s films launched a new era of music and dance woven into more sophisticated storylines. Audiences wanted glamour on the screen as a distraction from their economic woes and fears of a growing Nazi threat.
Stars like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers made it look easy in several films. Busby Berkeley’s grand set designs and synchronized overhead photography created a welcome escape for moviegoers.
This lecture includes video clips from extravaganzas like 42nd Street, multiple Golddiggers movies and others.