Carioca (song) same name by Fanchon and Marco. The word "Carioca" refers to inhabitants of Rio de Janeiro. Astaire and Roger's short dance has historical significance, as it was their first screen dance together. Though billed fourth and fifth, many felt they stole the film, which became a big hit for RKO. The song was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song at the 7th Academy Awards, but lost to an even bigger Astaire and Rogers production number, "The Continental" from "The Gay Divorcee" (1934), their next film together and their first starring vehicle. They were billed by RKO as
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in Vaudeville, partnering with his older sister, Adele. He made his first movie in 1933, taking on a small role in the movie "Dancing Lady" starring Clark Gable and Joan Crawford. Rogers made her first appearance in a 1929 movie short, then made feature Pre-Code movies with Warner Brothers Pictures such as "42nd Street" and "Gold Diggers of 1933". Astaire and Rogers made their first pairing in a movie in 1933, "Flying Down to Rio", in which they had supporting roles; the main star was Dolores Del Rio. The film, released late in 1933, earned worldwide rentals of $1.5 million.