When the trailer for Dance Flick first hit screens, there was a collective hope among comedy fans. Could the comedic dynasty behind I’m Gonna Get You, Sucka and In Living Color deliver a truly hilarious movie, especially after the less-than-stellar receptions of films like White Chicks and Little Man? For many, myself included, those trailers didn’t inspire much confidence.
However, upon finally watching Dance Flick, it’s genuinely surprising to see its dismal 3.3 out of 10 rating on IMDb (during its opening weekend). In reality, Dance Flick feels like a refreshing return to form for Keenan Ivory Wayans and a vibrant resurgence of the satirical brilliance reminiscent of In Living Color‘s golden era. Dare I say, it even surpasses many modern attempts at movie spoofs, particularly those from the Friedberg and Seltzer school of parody (think Disaster Movie, Meet the Spartans, Epic Movie, Date Movie) and even some of David Zucker’s later works. It’s worth noting that Shawn and Marlon Wayans seemed to be associated with Zucker’s comedic trajectory for a period, including their involvement in the Scary Movie franchise and the politically perplexing An American Carol.
Here’s why Dance Flick stands out as a genuinely effective Dance Movie Spoof:
1. It Gets the Source Material
Unlike many spoofs that seem to rely solely on trailer summaries, Dance Flick demonstrates a clear familiarity with the films it’s lampooning. This is the first key to a successful dance movie spoof – understanding what makes the genre tick and where its inherent humor lies. Many critical reviews seemed to miss jokes referencing movies like Little Miss Sunshine or Twilight, suggesting that those reviewers might not have fully appreciated the depth of the parody. The humor isn’t just surface-level; it’s clear the creators actually watched the movies they were spoofing. Imagine that! For a dance movie spoof to truly land, it needs to go beyond cheap gags and engage with the nuances of the genre it’s playing with.
2. A Talented Cast Unleashed
Dance Flick boasts a strong ensemble cast that’s given ample opportunity to shine, a crucial element for any successful dance movie spoof. David Alan Grier’s parody of Showgirls is a comedic highlight, perfectly utilizing his singing talents. While his role involves a fat suit, reminiscent of comedic tropes used by Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence, his performance is genuinely funny and a welcome redemption after his appearance in Zucker’s An American Carol.
Essence Atkins delivers a hilarious performance as Charity, the student mom whose nonchalant attitude towards parenting reaches comedic extremes when she hangs her baby carrier, baby inside, in a locker, advising the infant to “breathe through the vents.” This kind of over-the-top scenario is classic dance movie spoof territory, exaggerating everyday situations for comedic effect.
Shoshanna Bush is brilliant as Megan White, whose bizarre Julliard audition and mother teetering on the brink of melodramatic tragedy provide some of the film’s most memorable and laugh-out-loud moments. Her character embodies the often-absurd aspirations and dramatic flair common in dance movies, making her performance central to the film’s success as a dance movie spoof.
However, Damon Wayans, Jr. is the real revelation. As Thomas Uncles (a name that itself is a playful jab, echoing the humor of I’m Gonna Get You Sucka), he proves to be a comedic force. Playing a street dancer with aspirations of medical school, often seen in a “Cosby sweater,” Damon Jr. displays comedic timing and acting ability that rivals the best of the Wayans family legacy. His performance is a testament to the film’s comedic strength and hopefully signals more funny roles to come for him.
3. Direction with a Purpose
Damien Dante Wayans’ direction is another key factor in Dance Flick‘s success as a dance movie spoof. He demonstrates a clear understanding of comedic timing and layering jokes, moving beyond simply throwing random gags at the screen. This deliberate approach to comedy is what separates Dance Flick from less effective spoofs that rely on cheap laughs and shock value. Wayans’ direction ensures that the humor is both broad and clever, appealing to a wide audience while also rewarding viewers who appreciate more nuanced comedic setups.
4. A Return to Wayans’ Satirical Roots
Dance Flick feels like a spiritual successor to Hollywood Shuffle and I’m Gonna Get You Sucka, films that established the Wayans family as masters of affectionate satire. This continuity is crucial; it’s not just another generic spoof movie. It’s a dance movie spoof crafted by people who understand and love the genre, even as they poke fun at its clichés. Like those earlier films, Dance Flick uses satire to highlight the inherent silliness in much of popular cinema, but it does so with a sense of fondness rather than cynicism. This is what elevates it above mere parody and into the realm of genuine satire.
5. Genuinely Funny Jokes
Ultimately, the success of any dance movie spoof hinges on whether it’s funny, and Dance Flick delivers on this front. The movie is packed with well-timed gags, extending to the set design and costuming. While there are hints of jokes about Hairspray and Ray that could have been explored further, and the film isn’t flawless, the overwhelming factor is the consistent humor. Dance Flick is genuinely funny and absolutely worth your time if you’re looking for a movie that will make you laugh out loud. It’s a celebration of dance movies through the lens of comedy, making it a unique and enjoyable cinematic experience.
In conclusion, Dance Flick is a surprisingly effective and genuinely funny dance movie spoof that deserves more credit than it initially received. It’s a testament to the Wayans family’s comedic talent and a reminder of the power of well-crafted satire. If you’re a fan of dance movies or just need a good laugh, give Dance Flick a chance – you might be pleasantly surprised.
