Strictly Ballroom (1992)

Strictly Ballroom (1992) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

Strictly Ballroom (1992) is a vibrant and charming Australian film directed by Baz Luhrmann. Known for its colorful visuals, energetic dance sequences, and satirical take on the world of competitive ballroom dancing, the film has become a beloved classic in the realm of dance films. Featuring a dynamic cast led by Paul Mercurio and Tara Morice, Strictly Ballroom offers a blend of romance, comedy, and drama, making it a standout in its genre.

In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, key performances, and thematic elements. We’ll also provide information on where you can stream or rent Strictly Ballroom online in the U.S.

Plot Summary

Strictly Ballroom follows the story of Scott Hastings (Paul Mercurio), a talented ballroom dancer who is frustrated with the rigid conventions of competitive dancing. Scott is a rising star in the dance world but feels constrained by the traditional rules imposed by the competitive ballroom circuit.

When Scott partners with Fran (Tara Morice), an amateur dancer with a unique style, they face resistance from the established dance community. Fran’s unconventional moves and Scott’s rebellious spirit challenge the norms of ballroom dancing, leading to a journey of self-discovery and breaking free from societal expectations.

As Scott and Fran prepare for the Pan-Pacific Grand Prix Dancing Championship, they must navigate personal and professional obstacles while pursuing their passion for dance. The film’s plot intertwines themes of individuality, love, and rebellion against conformity, all set against the backdrop of the dazzling world of ballroom dance.

Key Characters and Performances

• Scott Hastings (Paul Mercurio)
  Paul Mercurio stars as Scott Hastings, the film’s central character and a gifted ballroom dancer. Mercurio’s performance captures Scott’s passion and frustration, making him a relatable and charismatic lead.
• Fran (Tara Morice)
  Tara Morice plays Fran, Scott’s dance partner who brings a fresh and unconventional approach to ballroom dancing. Morice’s portrayal of Fran adds depth to the character, highlighting her determination and unique talent.
• Shirley Hastings (Pat Thomson)
  Pat Thomson appears as Shirley Hastings, Scott’s overbearing mother and a driving force behind his career. Thomson’s performance adds a layer of comedy and complexity to the family dynamics.
• Barry Fife (Bill Hunter)
  Bill Hunter portrays Barry Fife, the scheming and manipulative organizer of the dance championships. Hunter’s performance as the antagonist adds a satirical edge to the film’s portrayal of the competitive dance world.
• Liz Holt (Gia Carides)
  Gia Carides plays Liz Holt, Scott’s former dance partner who represents the traditional and conservative side of ballroom dancing. Carides’s role adds to the film’s exploration of contrasting dance styles and personalities.

What to Expect from Strictly Ballroom

Strengths

1. Energetic Dance Sequences: The film’s dance sequences are vibrant and expertly choreographed. The energetic performances and lively dance numbers contribute to the film’s appeal and showcase the excitement of ballroom dancing.
2. Satirical Humor: Strictly Ballroom uses satire to critique the rigid and sometimes absurd nature of competitive dance. The film’s humorous take on the dance world adds an entertaining and insightful dimension to the story.
3. Colorful Visuals: Baz Luhrmann’s direction is characterized by its use of bold colors and dynamic visuals. The film’s distinctive visual style enhances the overall experience and captures the essence of the dance world.
4. Romantic and Inspirational Themes: The film’s themes of love, individuality, and breaking free from conformity resonate with audiences. The romance between Scott and Fran adds an emotional core to the story, while their journey serves as an inspiring narrative of self-expression.

Weaknesses

1. Predictable Plot: Some viewers may find the film’s plot predictable, following familiar tropes of the underdog story. While the execution is engaging, the storyline may not offer many surprises for those familiar with similar narratives.
2. Character Depth: While the characters are charming and memorable, some may lack depth beyond their archetypal roles. The film’s focus on dance and humor can sometimes overshadow more nuanced character development.
3. Cultural Specificity: The film’s Australian setting and references may be less accessible to international audiences who are unfamiliar with the cultural context. However, the universal themes of the film still provide broad appeal.

Direction and Cinematography

Baz Luhrmann’s direction brings a distinctive and energetic quality to Strictly Ballroom. Luhrmann’s use of color, music, and visual style creates a visually stunning and immersive experience. His direction effectively captures the exuberance and drama of the dance world.

The cinematography, by Andrew Dunnet, complements the film’s vibrant aesthetic with dynamic camera work and vivid visuals. The cinematography enhances the film’s lively and colorful portrayal of ballroom dancing.

Where to Watch Strictly Ballroom Online in the U.S.

Streaming Services

Strictly Ballroom is available for streaming on several platforms:

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals typically cost around $3.99, while purchases range from $9.99 to $14.99.
2. Apple TV+
   • Strictly Ballroom is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV+, with rental prices typically around $3.99 and purchase options starting at $9.99.
3. Google Play Movies
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Google Play Movies, with rentals at $3.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $14.99.
4. Hulu
   • Strictly Ballroom is available for streaming on Hulu with a subscription. Check the platform for availability.

Rental and Purchase Options

For additional rental and purchase options, you can also check:

• Vudu
• YouTube Movies
• Microsoft Store

Rental prices generally range from $2.99 to $4.99, with purchase options typically falling between $9.99 and $14.99.

Physical Media

Strictly Ballroom is available on DVD and Blu-ray, which can be purchased through major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. Special editions may include bonus features such as behind-the-scenes content, interviews with the cast and crew, and commentary.

Conclusion

Strictly Ballroom (1992) is a delightful and energetic film that captures the spirit of ballroom dancing with a blend of romance, humor, and vibrant visuals. With standout performances from Paul Mercurio and Tara Morice, and a satirical take on the dance world, the film offers an entertaining and inspiring experience. Available for streaming and digital rental or purchase, Strictly Ballroom is a must-watch for fans of dance films and those seeking a joyful and colorful cinematic adventure.