Dirty Dancing

I watched a movie and it was called Dirty Dancing, directed by  Emile Ardolino, released in 1987. It stars Jerry Orbach, Patrick Swayze, Jennifer Grey and Cynthia Rhodes. It is a story about “Baby” and her family on a vacation in 1963 and how she comes of age with Johnny, played by Patrick Swayze, a dancing instructor at said vacation retreat. I must tell you from the beginning that I have avoided this film for many years because of its subject matter, rom-dram (romantic drama) and thought I’d avoid it forever until my Mum wanted me to watch it with her. We couldn’t find the time and I had certain stipulations that had to be met beforehand. After seeing the reference in the last Night at the Museum, I decided it was time. I watched it and I thought it was excellent. It was a simple story, without a lot of back story and solid character development. Jennifer Grey is actually really nice looking in this movie and has some pretty decent moves after she actually learns how to dance. Jerry Orbach plays her father bringing in a solid performance. He plays the part with a quiet intensity that makes you believe that he is her father. Patrick Swayze also brings in a solid performance both as a dancer and an actor. I think what makes the movie work as well is the chemistry between Swayze and Grey as both lovers and dancers. The relationship chemistry between Grey and Orbach also makes this movie work as well. The casting was pitch perfect because it wouldn’t have worked any other way. The dancing sequences, choreographed by Swayze’s mom, really well done and thought out, showcasing a large range of styles. Patrick Swayze was quite the dancer and it really shows in this movie. Jennifer Grey does a great job showing the inexperience of dancing right from the start and builds on that, which is partly a metaphor visually for her coming of age and overcoming her awkwardness. The music is mostly of the time, 1963 and before music, save for the other hits included that are very 80's. It was pointed out to me that most of the scenes with Swazye and Grey all feature the word "Baby" which is a nice touch. The leitmotif of "Time of My Life" plays at different times to heighten the mood of Grey's character, which is also a nice touch as that is the final song.
Overall, I thought the movie was engaging and had a nice message of doing the right thing for the right reasons, spoke of relationships and being honest and not judging a book by its cover. A little romance, a little drama, a nice little movie for an afternoon.