January 11, 2009

Strictly Ballroom.


To me, there is nothing more sensual, passionate and evocative than a couple dancing. Nowhere is this more lovelier depicted than in one of my favorite movies, "Strictly Ballroom", which I watched again today. It is one of those movies, where every scene leaves me almost breathless. A modern take on Cinderella story, it is very romantic and at times fairytale like. Nevertheless, the point of the whole movie is summarized by one very poignant sentence, which is brought up several times through out the plot: "Life lived in fear is a life half lived".

Below is the most sensual dancing clip from the movie, in my opinion. However, it is much better enjoyed in the right context of the movie itself.
Watching this and the absolutely final dance scene still brings shivers down my spine.

9 comments:

Gal Friday said...

I am very intrigued by the video clip so will HAVE to seek this movie out to watch the whole thing.
I always wish I knew how to dance like that when I see these things....*sigh*
A favorite movie of mine is a Japanese one from a few years ago, "Shall We Dance?" which also involves ballroom dancing.
Interestingly, I also have a "dance" theme in my blog entry for today. ;-)

Diane said...

I've never seen the movie but you know how I love the idea of being able to dance. Sadly, it's just an idea... a dream... a wish... given that I have two left feet, no rhythm, and no partner :).

sandramucciardi.com said...

THANK YOU!
WHAT AN INTERESTING BLOG YOU HAVE HERE! LOVE IT!
SANDRA

Holly said...

I absolutely adore this movie!! Not only is it extremely sensual, but it is absolutely hilarious. Interestingly enough, very few people have ever even heard of this movie. Also, in a similar genre is "Best of Show". If you haven't seen it then you should definately pick it up. :)

Mahmud Yussop said...

Used to dance the 'cha cha 'with the song,which happens to be one of my favourite dance. Never attempted ballroom dancing though.When romance is in the air, I prefer rumba.And when I feel like having just good time, I dance the 'dang dut', a sort of Indonesian dance/song inspired by Indian music/dance. Dancing does make one feel young.

Melanie Gillispie said...

Strictly Ballroom was Baz Luhrmann, right? I never saw it, I wonder why. Don't know the story behind the clip, but I really like that she's just dressed in this calico dress and there are all these made up and feathered women around, and yet she's the one experiencing the sexy moment.

Zuzana said...

Gal Friday, please if you have not seen this movie, you simply have to. Particularly if you enjoy ballroom dancing. Well, this movie is about so much more though, I promise you will like it.
I have never seen the Japanese movie you mention, I am only familiar with the American version with the same title, starring Richard Gere, I believe.’
Funny we both felt like “dancing posts”.;))

Diane, I know dancing is something you like and I bet you are better at it than you think.;)) You know, it all depends on the partner; with the right partner you will be perfect.;))

Sandra, thanks for stopping by, and thank you for your kind words.;)) Please come back again.;)))

Holly, I knew you would like it! Yes, I have no idea why it is quiet unknown to so many. I agree with you, there is a lot of humor in it too; I love the colors and the costumes as well. And I like both actors playing the leading roles.
I am not familiar with the movie you mention, better look into it.;))

Mahmud, so you are quiet the dancer! I have no idea how to dance rumba, which seems so advanced. I would love to see you dance the “dang dut”, I have never heard of this dance before.;)) And I agree, dancing is a way to keep young, both physically and mentally.;)

Mel, yes, it is a Baz Luhrmann’s movie. And you got it; the whole point of the clip is the intimacy of the simple, yet sensual dance of the couple, while they are completely oblivious t the world around them. A perfect scene, if you ask me.;))

Donna said...

Ooooo, wow! Looks like a movie I'd like to see. Love the music.

Zuzana said...

Donna, this movie is wonderful, I can recommend it from the heart.;))