Thin Ice (1937)
Thin Ice is a 1937 American romantic comedy directed by Sidney Lanfield, produced by Twentieth Century-Fox, and starring Sonja Henie and Tyrone Power. Released on September 3, 1937, the film runs about 79 minutes and was designed as a vehicle for Henie, the Norwegian Olympic figure skating champion, who had recently transitioned to Hollywood stardom.
Plot Summary
Set in a Swiss resort, the story follows Lili Heiser (Sonja Henie), a skating instructor who dreams of romance and adventure. She meets Prince Rudolph (Tyrone Power), who is traveling incognito to escape the pressures of royal life. Mistaken identities, comedic misunderstandings, and skating sequences ensue as Lili and Rudolph fall in love.
The film blends lighthearted romance with Henie’s dazzling skating exhibitions, culminating in a grand ice ballet that showcases her athletic grace and charm.
Cast
- Sonja Henie as Lili Heiser
- Tyrone Power as Prince Rudolph
- Arthur Treacher as Paul
- Ray Milland as Eric
- Joan Davis as Miss Lulu
- Sig Ruman as Herr Muller
- Melville Cooper as Count Ulrich
Production Notes & Trivia
- Directed by Sidney Lanfield, known for stylish comedies and later The Hound of the Baskervilles (1939).
- Produced by Fox, which capitalized on Henie’s fame as a three‑time Olympic gold medalist in figure skating.
- Tyrone Power, then a rising star, was paired with Henie to boost her box office appeal.
- The film features elaborate skating sequences choreographed to highlight Henie’s athletic artistry.
- Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Dance Direction (for the skating ballet).
- Part of a cycle of Henie’s skating films, including One in a Million (1936) and Happy Landing (1938).
