Bolero
Bolero

Movie spotlight

Bolero

1934
Movie
85 min
English

The complicated relationship between an ambitious, ruthless nightclub dancer and the woman he loves.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Wesley RugglesGenres: Drama, Romance, Music

Plot Summary

A young Cuban woman, Helena, dreams of becoming a great dancer. She falls for an American sailor, Robert, but he is involved with a wealthy socialite. Torn between her ambition and her love, Helena navigates the complex social circles of Havana and New York, eventually finding her way to the famous Parisian nightclub, Le Trocadero. Her passionate dance performance becomes legendary.

Critical Reception

Bolero was a significant box office success upon its release, largely due to the star power of Carole Lombard and George Raft, and the sensationalism surrounding the famous dance sequence. While critics at the time acknowledged its spectacle and romantic drama, its artistic merits have been debated over the years, with some finding its plot melodramatic and its attempts at serious drama overshadowed by its musical numbers.

What Reviewers Say

  • Carole Lombard's star power shines, though the plot is often considered overly dramatic.

  • The iconic dance sequence remains the film's most memorable and celebrated element.

  • A visually rich film that captures the allure of its exotic settings and musical performances.

Google audience: Audience reception for 'Bolero' is not widely documented through modern aggregated platforms. However, its enduring popularity stems from its lavish production, the star appeal of its leads, and the unforgettable central dance sequence.

Fun Fact

The film's climactic dance sequence, choreographed by Chester Hale and danced by George Raft and Carole Lombard, was so popular that it was performed by Raft and Lombard on stage and at various events, becoming a signature moment for both actors.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

I wasn't aware of this film until I saw it last night at the BFI in London. I had always just assumed that George Raft is/was and always would be a gangster. Well he certainly isn't in this. His portrayal of a ruthlessly ambitious professio...