‘Footloose’: A Feel Good Romance about Dance
When Footloose came out, I was itching to get out to the cineplex to see something since it’d been a loooong time. Footloose won out.
Since I’ve not yet seen the “classic” 1980’s version on which this re-make was inspired by, I won’t make comparison observations.
Footloose (2011) Film Review
Sometimes the unthinkable happens… and sometimes people can be stronger in the aftermath. For a small Georgia town irrespective of their “united” front the people of the community have never fully heals three years after a tragedy takes five of their graduating seniors. In the aftermath, the town committee makes drastic changes, including the stanch Reverend Moore (Dennis Quaid). This prohibits any public dancing unless with the appropriate adult chaperones present.
#JulianneHough co-stars in the 2011 re-make of a classic! Who else likes this fun movie? #Footloose: A Feel Good Romance about Dance Share on XInto these strict codes and limitations walks Ren MacCormack (Kenny Wormald), a big-city Boston native who knows how heartbreak can change a person. Ariel (Julianne Hough) is a good church-going girl in the public’s eye but pain makes her a little rebel with a stubborn streak. As she and Ren slowly form a friendship, they begin to question everything, including themselves.
I saw this for two reasons. One is a recommendation from my cousin. It was also a point of interest to see how Dancing with the Stars alumni Julianne Hough would adjust to Hollywood acting. Much to my surprise, she actually holds her own with veteran stars Quaid and Andie MacDowell. She pours layers of emotions into a role that demands turmoil. In addition to the leading man whose authentic East Coast accent is employed (plus he is also a pro-dancer), the cast also includes Miles Teller (before he’s the new “it” boy of Hollywood) and Ziah Collon.
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Naturally, a movie with dancing at its crux stirs controversy. Each number is crisp in its footwork and precisely choreographed. The various dance contrasts impress; and furthermore how well they actually “work” together. One scene takes on a fun country-inspired number while another is a “sexier” number where the style of dance is a more modern tempo or freestyle.
As entertainment goes, I love this film. It’s peppy and happy-go-lucky yet it isn’t without heart and that is what good entertainment should inspire. It’s wonderful when something can “inspire” and still be funny.
Footloose has a surprise or two along the ride to the heart of its story making this not just another teen flick. There is actually lots of poignant moments. We feel for Ariel and understand her pain, and root on Ren’s wisdom in how he relates to her. I like that the characters relate to one another, especially (again) Ren’s treatment of Ariel. He recognizes in her the same pain as he has, but also understands he cannot be a party to her games. In the end his respect of her changes her.
Loosely based off of true events, this is one film that’s a toe-tapping good time.
(PS: Blake Shelton also happens to be the voice who re-recorded the titular song, and it sounds fantastic!)
CONTENT: There are a handful of crudities and profanity [h*ll, da*n]. Guys discuss sex in broad terms and make up a story or two about a sexual experience. It’s implied and later confirmed that Ariel becomes intimate. A girl is injured from being slapped. The implication of suicide is present. There is a head-on accident. The film is PG13.
Photos: Paramount Pictures / Spyglass Entertainment
how is it you always review the movies i'm thinking about watching? my friend and i are trying to find a time to go. now i really gotta see it! thanks :)
I haven't seen this nor the original, but I am in love with Blake Shelton's cover of this song =) I bought it for my MP3 player and dance around (in a good way ;-) all the time. It's such fun.
Oh, I'm really bummed…..remember Marry Me that you just reviewed? I can't find it anywhere =( My library doesn't own it and I only do streaming on Netflix now =(
Jessica – hmmm… that is a good question. =D LOL!
I certainly hope you do get to see this with your friend – I was surprised by its depth, it's more than one would expect from such a film.
You are welcome! =)
Ella – as I said in the review, this movie was a pleasant surprise. It was about more than just dancing and I liked that. If viewers don't tear up near the end when Ariel tells her dad they are "dancing," then there is something wrong with us – it was so special as was another scene involving Ren's little cousins (so sweet!). If you do see this, Ella, share your thoughts about it. =)
Oh, no! You cannot find Marry Me?? Hmmm… I don't know if you have any around but try Family Video or Lifetime TV (which is who aired it originally), but other then that, I don't know what to suggest – I don't use Netflix (it does have this title but perhaps it cannot be streamed) at all…
If we were neighbors instead of living states away, I'd totally lend you my copy. =D
Sounds cute and I LOVE Blake.
This one is cute… and sweet… and thought-provoking! I was a bit disappointed in some of its aspects (namely that the MPAA says it's cool for young teens to see!) but for the most part, I loved Footloose!
I saw Blake perform the titular song on TV and it sounded great. =D
Thanks bunches for following my blog, Juju – I always enjoy reading your thoughts. =)
first, i'm thrilled to hear both that you don't see many movies in theaters nor have you seen the original version of footloose. i thought i was the only person who didn't go to the theater often and hadn't seen the original version!
this sounds like a good movie – i'll have to see when it comes out on dvd!
Yes, do see this one, Annie! It is really an awesome way to enjoy a couple of hours.
I'll no doubt rent the original when I buy the DVD of this re-make but until then, nope it is not one I've seen. =) Recently I did watch Dirty Dancing and while it was entertaining, I prefer the more modern movies with dancing in them.
Yeah, going to the theaters hasn't ever become a weekly or bi-weekly or even monthly routine. It seems to come in pairs where I go to several in a row then don't enter a theater for months. Such is the case with this upcoming holiday season. There are about two or three in the next month I want to get to, so we'll see…