|
This movie
became an inspiration from producer (Nabatoff)
after watching a CBS episode about a
ballroom dancer teacher by the name of
Pierre Dulaine. After meeting up with
Mr. Dulaine to discuss his story as a
dancer now a teacher of a prestigious
high school of the performing art and
how he became one of the most
influential people of his time. Producer
(Nabatoff) gave this story to
Friedlander and Houston; both decided to
put together a film that will open up
your mind about music, dance and
culture.
The main character of the film Pierre
Dulaine played by Antonio Banderas,
portrays a former professional dancer
who volunteers to teach dance at an
upper Manhattan high school. The film
begins when he meets a troubled youth
Rock (Rob Brown) after smashing his
principal’s car and then fleeing the
scene. After discovering the name of the
school and principal in which the car
was destroyed. Pierre Dulaine the next
day speaks to Principal James (Alfre
Woodard) who is all about making sure
the kids stay focus and stay out of
trouble, bargains with Pierre by having
him volunteer his time with the youths
in detention hall. At first things are a
bit uncomfortable for Pierre and the
kids, but you can see much more is to
come as they gain mutual respect for
each other.
During the film Pierre commands
attention and he gets the kids to
understand the importance of ballroom
dancing and its culture, which is
something youths of today would be very
interested in taking if their serious
about dancing. Pierre shows the kids
ballroom dancing styles like the tango,
meringue, salsa, waltz, and the foxtrot.
Yet what gets there attention was how
Pierre brought in one of his students
Morgan (Katya Virshilas) to show the
elegance and beauty along with the
students idea of today’s hip hop style
in hopes of an opportunity to win a
ballroom dance competition.
Overall, this movie is a must see
because it blends all different types of
styles from the past and bring it up to
date with today’s dance moves and gives
you the sense of being there and feeling
the characters, movement, language and
music. If you’re serious about learning
what dancing is all about add this movie
as your future collection, this movie
reminds you of 2006 version of West Side
Story with a twist. Also, check out the
movies soundtrack original music
produced by Switzz Beatz and Aaron
Sigman. The opening of the film will
have you bopping your head to “La
Cumparsita” (Tango Remix) performed by
Q-Tip, album in stores April 4th.
|
