Top Hat

Top Hat

Year: 1935

Runtime: 101 min

Language: English

Director: Mark Sandrich

ComedyRomanceMusical

As lavish as a royal court, Top Hat whisks audiences away to London and Venice with charismatic entertainer Jerry Travers, whose charm is matched only by his misunderstandings. Wealthy socialite Dale Tremont becomes the object of his affections, but their whirlwind romance is threatened by mistaken identities and waltzing woes.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Top Hat yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Top Hat (1935)
Trace every key event in Top Hat (1935) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

Jerry's Arrival in London

American musical revue star Jerry Travers arrives in a London hotel excited to begin his new project. He is accompanied by his English theatrical backer, Horace Hardwick, as they settle into their temporary home.

London Hotel
2

The Dance Disturbance

While practicing his tap dancing, Jerry accidentally awakens his downstairs neighbor, Dale Tremont. Despite Dale's initial irritation, Jerry becomes infatuated with her and begins sending her flowers daily.

London Hotel
3

The Romantic Cab Ride

Jerry grows bolder and decides to pose as a hansom cab driver to escort Dale to her riding lesson. During their time together in the park, they share a romantic moment in a pavilion as an unexpected rainstorm hits.

London Park
4

Misunderstanding and Slap

The blossoming romance hits a snag when Dale mistakenly believes that Jerry is the husband of her matchmaking friend, Madge Hardwick. In a fit of confusion and frustration, she impulsively slaps Jerry upon encountering him at the hotel.

London Hotel
5

Dale's Journey to Italy

Dale is convinced by her devoted dressmaker, Alberto, to accept an invitation from Madge to Italy, despite her longing to return to America. Before leaving, her connection with Jerry remains unresolved, with tension still lingering from the slap.

Italy
6

Jerry's Pursuit

After receiving a telegram informing him of Dale's travel to Venice, Jerry rushes through his London show and quickly flies to Italy with Horace. He remains unaware of the misunderstandings surrounding his identity.

London to Venice
7

Confusion in Italy

In Italy, Jerry is bemused by Dale's mixed signals regarding her feelings. Meanwhile, Horace finds himself confused by interference from Alberto, who has his own intentions, causing complications in the unfolding love story.

Venetian Hotel
8

The Dance Invitation

At a nightclub in Venice, Madge encourages Dale to dance with Jerry, leading to further confusion. Dale mistakenly believes that Jerry is actually Horace, igniting more complications in their entangled relationships.

Venetian Nightclub
9

The Proposal Gone Wrong

In an unexpected turn, Jerry proposes to Dale, only to be met with another slap. This situation escalates when Madge reacts violently to Dale's complaints about Horace, further complicating emotions and relationships among the group.

Venetian Nightclub
10

Alberto's Marriage Proposal

Heartbroken and despondent after her troubling interactions with Jerry and misunderstandings with Horace, Dale is swept off her feet by Alberto. She ultimately accepts his marriage proposal, adding to the confusion and heartache.

Venice
11

Jerry's Secret Meeting

After discovering Dale's marriage to Alberto, Jerry resorts to his tap dancing skills from London to arrange a secret meeting with her. His determination showcases his feelings for her, despite the obstacles.

Venice
12

Revelation in the Gondola

During a scenic gondola ride, Dale learns of Jerry's true identity, leading to renewed feelings. However, they are pursued by the vengeful Alberto, adding urgency to their rediscovered connection.

Venice Canals
13

The Wedding Reveal

In a surprising twist, it's revealed that Bates impersonated a clergyman and officiated Dale and Alberto's wedding. This revelation opens the door for Dale to reevaluate her choices and feelings for Jerry.

Venice
14

Dale's Decision

Finally free from her entanglements, Dale decides to accept Jerry's proposal. Their reunion is marked by joy as they celebrate their love amidst the enchanting backdrop of Venice.

Venice Nightclub
15

A Joyful Dance

Back in the nightclub, Jerry and Dale dance together, embodying their uncontainable happiness. Their love story culminates in a lively celebration as they revel together on the dance floor.

Venetian Nightclub

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 15:42

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