In Holiday Inn (1942), Fred Astaire plays Ted Hanover, a performer who, with his friend Jim Hardy, played by Bing Crosby, opens an inn that is open only on holidays. Directed by Mark Sandrich, with songs by Irving Berlin, the film follows Ted and Jim as they compete for the affection of Linda Mason, played by Marjorie Reynolds.
Astaire’s dancing, including a famous firecracker number on the Fourth of July, is inventive and energetic, and the film introduced the song White Christmas, sung by Crosby. Holiday Inn remains a beloved seasonal musical, and Astaire’s performance is a highlight.
.jpg)