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The main point of Flying Down to Rio is the screen promise of Fred Astaire.... He's assuredly a bet after this one, for he's distinctly likeable on the screen, the mike is kind to his voice and as a dancer he remains in a class by himself. The latter observation will be no news to the professsion, which has long admitted that Astaire starts dancing where the others stop hoofing

Fred Astaire#38

PerformanceFilmTalentCareerSuccessPotential

About this quote

What does it mean?
Astaire is predicted to succeed based on his likability, voice, and unmatched dancing ability.
In plain terms
Astaire will succeed because he is likable and dances uniquely.
What can you take from it?
Success comes from combining likability with unique skill.

Where it applies

  • film review
  • casting decision
  • career prediction

Putting it to work

  • develop unique edge
  • cultivate screen presence

Questions to consider

  • What predicts success in art?
  • How do you balance skill and appeal?

Another view

Success depends on more than just talent and likability.

More from Fred Astaire

  1. You can get dancers like this for 75$ a week

    Permalink to quote #37
  2. Of all the actors and actresses I've ever worked with, the hardest worker is Fred Astaire. He behaved like he was a young man whose whole destiny depended on b…

    Permalink to quote #39
  3. Once after a dinner party, Gregory Peck and I drove Fred Astaire home. Fred lived in a colonial house that had a long porch with many pillars. When we dropped …

    Permalink to quote #36

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