Ritmo do Amor

24 March 2013. While not in the same league as Black Swan (2010) or The Artist (2011), this predictable romantic dance drama incorporates elements from Shall We Dance? (1996, remade 2004) that make this movie an entertaining piece. It even provides a more fascinating experiential look at dancing that The Cutting Edge (1992) which parallels the storyline with ice skating but which that movie seemed to omit the thrill of the skating competition itself. Avoiding the more exaggerated and melodramatic impression from Dirty Dancing (1987), Love N'Dancing restrains the story in a way to make it even more believable that art films evoke even while it retains a more mainstream entertainment impact like The Cutting Edge. This movie doesn't quite break out in its stylish, innovative presentation like Music and Lyrics (2007), but it has its own charm, especially a rather nice ending sequence that is somewhat unusual but satisfying in its approach to tying up loose ends.

MoviePlex is a generally blah movie channel (especially since it dropped its Western Wednesdays) but occasionally it brings us a little or little-known film that just grabs a viewer's heart and won't let go.

This movie is one of those.

Its cast of mostly unknowns (I think Billy Zane is the only one I had heard of) are not only astonishingly talented, but the characters they play are very likable and even compelling. There are some stereotypes, but they just add to the fun.

They are also mostly extremely attractive, either as physical specimens or as characters. Nicola Royston, for one, is just eye-poppingly and exotically beautiful -- and has made apparently only one movie. (What is the matter with the world's casting directors?)

Even the film's closest-to-villainous characters are likable and good-looking. One man who ignores his intended and pays more attention to business is one of them, but he is to be pitied, not censured.

Look especially for Rachel Dratch, of whom probably I should have known, but this was my first look. She is absolutely adorable, and in her last scene, she steals it. Watch her face. Marvelous!

The music is not even close to being what I would ordinarily listen to, but as setting for the dances, it was something even I liked. Some of the choreography is less than perfect, but the dancers are so good, so watchable, so graceful and athletic, any flaws (which might be subjective, anyway) are totally unimportant.

In short, this is one excellent movie, one I've already watched twice, and one I highly recommend to any person who likes dance, who likes "damn nice" people (to quote one character's assessment of some of his dance rivals), and who appreciates top-of-the-line talent.

This movie is now available on YouTube.

As well, Tom Malloy is the best thing in this movie. I am giving an entrance with references which you must know, yeah, regular chick flick movie- feel-good movie plus dancing which is my favorite, musical-chick flick. I appreciate but I can't say it is hilarious; Strictly Ballroom- Buz made it in 90's with a great success. "Brave new steps put Scott's career in jeopardy. With a new partner and determination, can he still succeed?" That is why we love "The Cutting Edge", buddy. Mr Malloy stole my heart! Amy Smart, you are still my "Butterfly Effect":) I warn you that I may be one of those critics but still full of emotions!; it reminded me that honesty. I'm looking forward for your next movies Malloy, surprise me!

While I am not a movie critic, I realize (and appreciate) the themes which director Robert Iscove and writer Tom Malloy highlight in this movie. Rarely do theatrical releases emphasize the important theme of "ability" versus "disability" that this movie does so well. Love N' Dancing is not just a film about someone who is hearing-impaired finding love and acceptance, but it highlights a theme important to life: accepting our own limitations and then finding the courage to triumph over them. Sometimes you need someone else to help you realize that you have more courage and determination than you give yourself credit for. With these qualities, you are able to harness the power within to challenge, and eventually overcome, the face of adversity. These themes are central to the Love N' Dancing story, and they complement a new style of dancing unfamiliar to most Americans.

In this movie, the adversity is a hearing loss. To provide an obstacle for our main hero and heroine, Malloy introduces a character we love to hate: one who represents those kinds of people you encounter who are usually negative in life and actually prevent you from achieving high self-esteem and self-confidence, which are qualities that are so important in realizing your dreams.

Most "relationship" movies don't emphasize this "ability" theme as well as this movie does. For these reasons, I loved Love N' Dancing and the important life messages it conveys to the viewer. I urge you to see the movie with this philosophical understanding, and you may never look at a "disabled" person in the same way again!

This film is about a former dance champion who re-evaluates his life after meeting a dedicated and talented student.

"Love N' Dancing" is not a typical romantic comedy. It successfully amalgamates these cheesy themes into an enjoyable film with a positive message. On the surface, it is about love and dancing. At a deeper level, "Love N' Dancing" is about not letting impairments and self doubt hinder yourself reaching your full potential. It is an uplifting feel good film, both visually and emotionally.

I enjoyed watching it a lot, and I think it deserves a wider audience and more recognition.