Lilly and Lester Marton are a New York writing team who convince former film star and friend Tony Hunter (Fred Astaire) to try Broadway for a career comeback. They are secondary characters as the plot concentrates on Tony the hoofer's antagonism with Gabrielle the ballerina (Cyd Charisse).
Still, the Martons deserve a closer look.
Lilly (Nanette Fabray) and Lester (Oscar Levant) are modeled after the real-life writing duo of Betty Comden and Adolph Green who were often mistaken for man and wife when actually they were each married to other (very understanding) spouses.
The Martons are successful playwrights and performers. We see them argue a bit when under stress, but mostly they are a solid couple. It is their strength and solidarity that provides a safe haven for Tony, a forgotten star and confirmed bachelor whom no one seems to want either professionally or personally.
Tony is forever putting on a facade, masking how he genuinely feels. ("I'm by myself, alone.")The Martons gently ease Tony into admitting his despondency, admitting that he actually likes Gabrielle. They are careful not to break his spirit.
These are great friends and a lovely and talented couple. I wish there were more movie characters like these two.
