Cast
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Vera Zorina
as Vera Barnova
Eddie Albert
as Phil Dolan Jr.
Alan Hale
as Sergei Alexandrovitch
Frank McHugh
as Paddy Reilly
James Gleason
as Phil Dolan Sr.
Leonid Kinskey
as Ivan Boultonoff
Gloria Dickson
as Peggy Porterfield
Queenie Smith
as Mrs. Lil Dolan
Erik Rhodes
as Konstantin Morrisine
Berton Churchill
as Donald Henderson
Donald O'Connor
as Phil Jr. as a Boy
Sarita Wooton
as Vera as a Girl (as Sarita Wooten)
Irving Bacon
as Second Stage Manager
Leon Belasco
as Mishka - Slave in Ballet
Symona Boniface
as Woman in Audience
Crew
Director
- Ray Enright
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
On Your Toes represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Ray Enright brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1939, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of On Your Toes took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 66 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1939, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While On Your Toes shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Archies, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, On Your Toes subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Chasing Two Hares and Mary Poppins explore similar territory, On Your Toes stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 14, 1939
- Runtime: 1h 34m
