For aficionados of dance films, particularly those with a penchant for the vibrant era of Eighties Dance Movies, you’ll understand the unique formulas and sheer joy these films deliver. From the rebellious spirit of “Footloose” to the aspirational grit of “Flashdance,” the 1980s gifted us a treasure trove of movies that moved our feet and our hearts. However, amidst this sparkling collection, “Dirty Dancing” (1987), starring the unforgettable duo of Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, holds a special place. While some might dismiss its premise as simple or overly sentimental, its enduring appeal lies in its very simplicity and the undeniable on-screen chemistry between its leads – a dynamic made even more compelling by rumors of their off-screen friction.
The film introduces us to Frances “Baby” Houseman (Jennifer Grey), a kind-hearted and somewhat naive young woman fresh out of high school. She finds herself vacationing at Kellerman’s, a family resort nestled in the Catskills Mountains, during the summer of 1963. Accompanying her are her parents and her sister Lisa (Jane Brucker), whose primary concern seems to be attracting attention. Baby, attempting to politely evade the advances of Neil (Lonny Price), the resort owner’s entitled grandson (Jack Weston), stumbles upon a hidden world within Kellerman’s: the staff’s clandestine late-night dance parties. It’s in this vibrant, secret space that she becomes captivated by Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze), the resort’s charismatic and skilled dance instructor.
Alt text: Iconic dance scene from Dirty Dancing featuring Patrick Swayze lifting Jennifer Grey, symbolizing the passionate romance at the heart of this classic eighties dance movie.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Penny (Cynthia Rhodes), Johnny’s dance partner, faces an unplanned pregnancy and seeks an illegal abortion. Stepping up to help, Baby volunteers to learn Penny’s part, aiming to fill in for an important upcoming dance competition. As Baby and Johnny rehearse and spend time together, their relationship deepens beyond dance steps. Yet, Baby finds herself caught between her burgeoning romance with Johnny and her close bond with her protective father, Jake (Jerry Orbach), a doctor. Will their love story overcome these obstacles? To discover the answer, experiencing the movie is a must.
“Dirty Dancing” masterfully revitalizes a potentially predictable storyline by injecting it with dynamic dance sequences, breathing fresh life into familiar tropes. While certain moments might flirt with being overly sentimental – most notably the iconic “nobody puts Baby in the corner” line – for many viewers, this is precisely where the film’s charm resides. This iconic line’s power is undeniable; even in a stage production of “Dirty Dancing” witnessed a few years back, the audience erupted with enthusiastic cheers upon its delivery.
Jennifer Grey delivers a captivating portrayal of a young woman on the cusp of adulthood, charting Baby’s transformation throughout the summer. Her ability to transition from the sharp-tongued high school student in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” to the well-meaning innocence of Baby is truly remarkable. Patrick Swayze, equally impressive, showcases his versatility, proving his prowess in romantic roles alongside his established action film credentials. Together, their performances elevate “Dirty Dancing” beyond a typical romance, cementing its status as a beloved entry in eighties dance movies.
Alt text: Jennifer Grey and Jerry Orbach in Dirty Dancing, highlighting the father-daughter relationship and the coming-of-age themes within this popular eighties dance movie.
“Dirty Dancing” is appropriately rated for viewers aged 13 and older, acknowledging the mature themes present, such as Penny’s storyline. Earning a solid 4 out of 5 stars, the film consistently entertains without losing momentum. The captivating performances and unforgettable soundtrack contribute to an enjoyable viewing experience, making “Dirty Dancing” a standout amongst eighties dance movies. Happy watching!
