The 75+ Best Dance Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- 1Jennifer Grey, Patrick Swayze, Jerry Orbach
Dirty Dancing is a timeless classic that continues to enchant audiences with its blend of romance, drama, and unforgettable dance sequences. Set in the summer of 1963, the film stars Jennifer Grey as Frances "Baby" Houseman, a young woman whose vacation with her family takes an exciting turn when she meets Johnny Castle, a charismatic dance instructor played by Patrick Swayze. As Baby learns to dance and falls in love with Johnny, the movie delivers powerful messages about class, family expectations, and personal growth. Dirty Dancing not only captivated audiences but also earned accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "(I've Had) The Time of My Life," beautifully encapsulating the film's spirit and enduring appeal.
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- 2Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, Donald O'Connor
Singin' in the Rain is a timeless masterpiece of the musical genre, released in 1952. Starring Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor, and Debbie Reynolds, it tells the story of Hollywood's transition from silent films to "talkies," blending humor, romance, and unforgettable musical numbers. Gene Kelly's performance as Don Lockwood, a popular silent film star navigating the new sound era, is iconic, especially his joyful dance through puddled streets in the title number. Despite its modest performance at the box office and awards shows initially, receiving just two Academy Award nominations and not winning any, Singin' in the Rain has since risen to legendary status. It is celebrated as one of the greatest musical films ever, praised for its innovative choreography, catchy tunes, and witty look at Hollywood's history.
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- 3Kevin Bacon, Lori Singer, John Lithgow
Footloose, released in 1984, is a spirited musical drama that became an emblem of rebellion and the power of dance. Kevin Bacon stars as Ren McCormack, a big-city teenager who moves to a small town where dancing and rock music have been banned. Ren challenges the conservative local authorities, spearheaded by Reverend Shaw Moore (John Lithgow), to lift the ban and allow the town's teens to express themselves through dance. Lori Singer plays Ariel Moore, the Reverend's rebellious daughter and Ren's love interest. Footloose dazzled audiences with its energetic soundtrack, compelling performances, and a story that celebrates youth, freedom, and change. While it didn't snag any Oscars, it did earn a nomination for Best Original Song, highlighting its impactful music and cultural resonance.
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- 4John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, Stockard Channing
Grease, the iconic 1978 musical romance, is a vibrant celebration of 1950s teen culture, love, and rebellion. Starring John Travolta as the cool bad-boy Danny Zuko and Olivia Newton-John as the sweet and innocent Sandy Olsson, the film captures their summer love and the trials they face as they navigate their vastly different high school cliques. With its catchy soundtrack, memorable dance numbers, and timeless appeal, Grease solidified itself as a cultural phenomenon. Its mix of humor, heart, and unforgettable music resulted in nominations for several awards, including an Oscar for "Hopelessly Devoted to You." However, its most significant achievement is its lasting impact on pop culture, making it a beloved classic for generations.
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- 5Jennifer Beals, Michael Nouri, Cynthia Rhodes
Flashdance, a groundbreaking film from 1983, melds music, romance, and dance into an inspirational narrative that resonated with audiences worldwide. Jennifer Beals stars as Alex Owens, a fiercely independent young woman who works as a welder by day and a dancer by night in a Pittsburgh bar, all while dreaming of becoming a professional ballet dancer. With memorable performances, iconic dance sequences, and an electrifying soundtrack, Flashdance taps into themes of ambition, love, and self-expression. Its chart-topping music, including the powerful anthem "Flashdance... What a Feeling," performed by Irene Cara, won an Academy Award for Best Original Song, securing the film's place in pop culture history as a symbol of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams.
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- 6Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer, Russ Tamblyn
West Side Story, the 1961 film adaptation of the Broadway hit, is a timeless musical that reimagines Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet in the streets of 1950s New York City. It tells the story of a fierce rivalry between two teenage street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds, the Jets and the Sharks. Amid this backdrop, a forbidden romance blooms between Tony (Richard Beymer), a former Jet, and Maria (Natalie Wood), the sister of a Shark leader. This groundbreaking film is celebrated for its powerful performances, impactful narrative, and Leonard Bernstein's unforgettable score with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. West Side Story was a critical and commercial success, sweeping the Academy Awards with ten wins, including Best Picture, due to its masterful direction, choreography, and musical execution, solidifying its status as a cinematic landmark.
- 7John Travolta, Karen Lynn Gorney, Barry Miller
Saturday Night Fever, the 1977 film that catapulted John Travolta to stardom, is more than just a disco-era time capsule; it's a gritty and engaging coming-of-age story. Travolta shines as Tony Manero, a working-class Brooklyn youth whose weekend escapades at the local discotheque offer him an escape from the realities of his mundane life. His passion for dancing, coupled with the vibrant disco culture backdrop, propels him toward dreams of a better future. The film's pulsating soundtrack, featuring hits by the Bee Gees, became almost as iconic as the movie itself, defining a generation. Saturday Night Fever received critical acclaim, earning Travolta an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Though it didn't win in that category, its cultural impact and portrayal of 1970s disco mania have endured, making it a classic piece of American cinema.
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- 8Julia Stiles, Sean Patrick Thomas, Kerry Washington
Save the Last Dance, a 2001 dance drama film, captivates its audience with a fusion of ballet and hip-hop, set against the backdrop of inner-city Chicago. The story follows Sara (played by Julia Stiles), a small-town girl with dreams of becoming a ballet dancer, whose aspirations are sidelined by her mother's tragic death. Relocating to a predominantly black neighborhood, Sara meets Derek (played by Sean Patrick Thomas), who helps reignite her passion for dance while introducing her to the world of hip-hop. Their budding romance and shared ambitions face societal and cultural pressures, exploring themes of love, race, and following one's dreams. While Save the Last Dance did not scoop major film awards, it was a commercial success and praised for its heartwarming narrative and dynamic dance sequences, resonating with a generation of young viewers.
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- 9Channing Tatum, Jenna Dewan, Mario
Step Up, released in 2006, is a dance drama film that became an unexpected hit, launching a successful franchise and reinvigorating interest in dance-centered movies. The film stars Channing Tatum in a breakout role as Tyler Gage, a troubled young man from the streets, and Jenna Dewan as Nora Clark, a dedicated ballet dancer at a prestigious performing arts school. When Tyler lands community service at Nora's school, their worlds collide, leading to a collaboration that changes their lives and challenges their backgrounds. With its heart-pounding dance sequences against the backdrop of a love story and overcoming adversity, Step Up captured audiences' imaginations. Although it didn't garner significant awards attention, the film's cultural impact and the careers it launched are undeniable, making it a beloved classic in the dance genre.
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- 10John Travolta, Nikki Blonsky, Amanda Bynes
Hairspray, the 2007 musical comedy, bursts with vibrant colors, catchy tunes, and a powerful message of inclusivity and revolution. Set in 1962 Baltimore, it follows Tracy Turnblad (Nikki Blonsky), a plucky teenager with dreams of dancing on the Corny Collins Show. As Tracy becomes a local star, she uses her platform to challenge racial segregation. The star-studded cast includes John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, and Queen Latifah, among others. The film, based on the Broadway musical, which in turn is based on John Waters's 1988 movie, celebrates diversity while tackling serious issues with humor and heart. Though Hairspray garnered widespread critical acclaim and a loyal fan following, it didn't take home major awards, but its energetic performances and social commentary made it a cultural touchstone.
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- 11Irene Cara, Eddie Barth, Lee Curreri
Fame, released in 1980, dives deep into the lives of several talented students attending the New York City High School for the Performing Arts. The film explores the struggles, triumphs, and personal journeys of these young artists, including musicians, dancers, and actors, as they aspire to achieve fame and success while navigating the pressures and challenges of their rigorous education. Starring Irene Cara, Lee Curreri, and Paul McCrane among others, Fame is celebrated for its dynamic musical numbers, compelling drama, and raw depiction of the ambitions and hardships of aspiring artists. The film's success led to multiple Academy Award nominations, winning two for Best Original Score and Best Original Song for its title track, "Fame," sung by Irene Cara. It became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a generation of young performers and spawning a franchise.
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- 12Kirsten Dunst, Eliza Dushku, Jesse Bradford
Bring It On, released in 2000, quickly became a cult classic, blending humor, sport, and teenage drama to explore the competitive world of cheerleading. The film stars Kirsten Dunst as Torrance Shipman, the newly appointed captain of the Toros cheerleading squad, who discovers their previous captain stole routines from the East Compton Clovers, led by Gabrielle Union's character, Isis. Faced with this moral dilemma and the pressure of the upcoming championships, Torrance vows to lead her team to victory with original routines. Bring It On was celebrated for its spirited performances, witty script, and portrayal of female athleticism and rivalry. Despite its lack of major award wins, the film's enduring popularity spawned several sequels and solidified its status as a beloved sports comedy that continues to inspire audiences with its catchy cheers and empowering message.
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- 13Michael Douglas, Terrence Mann, Audrey LandersHundreds of hopefuls congregate at a cattle call for Broadway dancers. A sour director, Zach (Michael Douglas), and his brusque assistant (Terrence Mann) whittle down the ranks until they're left with 16 dancers. All tell their life stories -- some tragic, some comic -- and explain their love of dance. Tension mounts when Cassie (Alyson Reed) -- once both a big star and the director's lover but now desperate for a part -- auditions. But Zach must choose only the best for his show.More A Chorus Line
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- 14Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, Glynis Johns
Mary Poppins, the enchanting 1964 Disney classic, stars Julie Andrews in her Oscar-winning role as the whimsical and practically perfect nanny who flies into the lives of the Banks family. With a combination of live-action and animation, alongside unforgettable songs and magical adventures, she transforms the family dynamics and teaches important life lessons with a spoonful of sugar. Dick Van Dyke co-stars as Bert, the cheerful chimney sweep with a heart of gold. Mary Poppins wowed audiences and critics alike, earning thirteen Academy Award nominations and winning five, including Best Actress for Andrews, Best Original Song for "Chim Chim Cher-ee," and Best Visual Effects. Its blend of heartwarming storytelling, innovative cinematography, and memorable music has cemented its legacy as one of the most beloved films in cinematic history.
- 15Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Eric BlorePeter P. Peters (Fred Astaire) is an American ballet dancer working in Paris. After happening across a photograph of tap-dance sensation Linda Keene (Ginger Rogers), Peters falls instantly in love and, using his connections, arranges for a meeting. Unfortunately, Peters's overzealous nature leaves Keene unimpressed and a rumor begins circulating that the two are secretly married. In order to quell the rumor Peters and Keene decide to actually get married and then seek a prompt divorce.
- 16Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger, Richard Gere
Chicago, the dazzling 2002 film adaptation of the Broadway musical, is a scintillating exploration of fame, fortune, and the media's manipulation within the jazz-infused backdrop of 1920s Chicago. The film stars Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renée Zellweger as Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, two murderesses who find themselves on death row together, vying for the spotlight as their trials become media sensations. Richard Gere shines as the suave, manipulative lawyer Billy Flynn, who turns his clients' cases into a spectacle. Chicago was lauded for its electrifying performances, stylish direction, and stunning musical numbers, sweeping the 75th Academy Awards with six wins, including Best Picture. Its critical and commercial success marked a resurgence of the musical film genre, celebrating the artistry and spectacle of theater on the big screen.
More Chicago - 17Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Victor MooreDexterous and risk-taking Lucky Garnett (Fred Astaire) pursues dancing and gambling with equal verve. Engaged to the pretty Margaret Watson (Betty Furness), Lucky gets pre-wedding nerves, which leads to the ceremony being called off. Margaret's father decides that Lucky can have a second chance at marrying her if he can make $25,000, so he heads to New York City to seek his fortune. When Lucky meets the beautiful dance teacher Penny Carroll (Ginger Rogers), however, his priorities soon change.
- 18Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, Ann MillerFun-loving sailors Gabey (Gene Kelly), Chip (Frank Sinatra) and Ozzie (Jules Munshin) have 24 hours of shore leave in New York City, and they want to make every second count. While Chip hooks up with loudmouth cab driver Brunhilde (Betty Garrett) and Ozzie swoons for prim anthropologist Claire (Ann Miller), Gabey falls in love with an actress he sees in an advertisement, Ivy Smith (Vera-Ellen). Leonard Bernstein, with lyricists Betty Comden and Adolph Green, provides the music.More On the Town
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- 19Cher, Christina Aguilera, Eric DaneStarring Cher and Christina Aquilera.Ali (Christina Aguilera), a small-town gal with a great voice, leaves a troubled life behind and follows her dreams to Los Angeles. She lands a job as a cocktail waitress at the Burlesque Lounge, a once-majestic theater that houses an inspired musical revue led by Tess (Cher), the proprietor. Ali vows to perform there and, with the help of a savvy stage manager and a gender-bending host, she makes the leap from bar to stage, helping restore the club's former glory.More Burlesque
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- 20Nicole Kidman, Ozzy Osbourne, Kylie MinogueMoulin Rouge! is a 2001 Australian–American pastiche-jukebox musical film directed, produced, and co-written by Baz Luhrmann. It tells the story of a young English poet/writer, Christian, who falls in love with the terminally-ill star of the Moulin Rouge, cabaret actress and courtesan Satine. It uses the musical setting of the Montmartre Quarter of Paris, France. At the 74th Academy Awards, the film was nominated for eight Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Nicole Kidman, winning two: for Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design. It was the first musical nominated for Best Picture in 10 years, following Disney's Beauty and the Beast.More Moulin Rouge!
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- 21Deborah Kerr, Yul Brynner, Rita MorenoIn this film adaptation of the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical, widowed Welsh mother Anna Loenowens (Deborah Kerr) becomes a governess and English tutor to the wives and many children of the stubborn King Mongkut of Siam (Yul Brynner). Anna and the king have a clash of personalities as she works to teach the royal family about the English language, customs and etiquette, and rushes to prepare a party for a group of European diplomats who must change their opinions about the king.More The King and I
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- 22Amanda Schull, Zoe Saldana, Susan May Pratt
Center Stage, released in 2000, steps into the highly competitive world of ballet, capturing the aspirations, struggles, and growth of young dancers at the prestigious American Ballet Academy in New York City. The ensemble cast features Amanda Schull as Jody Sawyer, a talented but technically flawed dancer, alongside Ethan Stiefel, Sascha Radetsky, and Zoe Saldana in her film debut. These characters navigate the pressures of professional ballet, exploring themes of body image, dedication, and personal identity against a backdrop of breathtaking dance performances. While Center Stage did not clinch major awards, its portrayal of the ballet world's rigors and its dynamic dance sequences have endeared it to audiences, making it a beloved cult classic within the dance film genre.
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- 23Howard Keel, Jane Powell, Russ TamblynIn the heartland of 1850s Oregon, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers unfolds. Millie (Jane Powell), a townswoman, marries backwoodsman Adam Pontipee (Howard Keel) only to discover his six unruly brothers living in their cabin. A romantic musical comedy ensues as Millie guides the brothers through courtship etiquette. The film is punctuated by vibrant dance sequences and memorable songs, earning it an Academy Award for Best Scoring of a Musical Picture. The story climaxes with a surprising twist, leaving audiences captivated till the last scene. All this happens under Stanley Donen's deft direction, making it an iconic Hollywood musical.
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- 24Gene Kelly, Leslie Caron, Oscar LevantJerry Mulligan (Gene Kelly) is an American ex-GI who stays in post-war Paris to become a painter, and falls for the gamine charms of Lise Bouvier (Leslie Caron). However, his paintings come to the attention of Milo Roberts, a rich American heiress, who is interested in more than just art.More An American in Paris
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- 25Ruby Keeler, Warner Baxter, Bebe DanielsWhen revered Broadway director Julian Marsh (Warner Baxter) falls on hard times with both his health and his finances, he helms an ambitious musical as a final production before his retirement. His lead actress, Dorothy Brock (Bebe Daniels), is torn between two loves--the show's wealthy backer, Abner Dillon (Guy Kibbee), and the earnest but penniless actor Pat Denning (George Brent) --while aspiring young performer Peggy Sawyer (Ruby Keeler) waits in the wings, hoping for her big break.
- 26Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Brittany MurphyMumble (Elijah Wood), a young emperor penguin, lives in Antarctica. Like others of his kind, he needs to be able to sing to attract a mate, but he has a terrible voice. Instead, Mumble must express himself, and lure a female through his amazing talent for tap-dancing.More Happy Feet
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- 27Roy Scheider, Jessica Lange, Ann ReinkingAll That Jazz is a gripping exploration of life and death, orchestrated by the renowned director Bob Fosse. This semi-autobiographical musical drama dives into the tumultuous world of Joe Gideon (Roy Scheider), a work-obsessed Broadway director and choreographer grappling with his mortality. As he flits between reality and fantasy, the film delves into Gideon's chaotic lifestyle filled with dance, women, and ceaseless work. Jessica Lange stars as Angelique, a looming presence signifying death. The film clinched four Academy Awards in 1980, including Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design, solidifying its place in cinematic history.More All That Jazz
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- 28John Travolta, Debra Winger, Scott GlennAfter moving to Pasadena, Texas, country boy Bud Davis (John Travolta) starts hanging around a bar called Gilley's, where he falls in love with Sissy (Debra Winger), a cowgirl who believes the sexes are equal. They eventually marry, but their relationship is turbulent due to Bud's traditional view of gender roles. Jealousy over his rival, Wes (Scott Glenn), leads to their separation, but Bud attempts to win Sissy back by triumphing at Gilley's mechanical bull-riding competition.More Urban Cowboy
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- 29Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Vincent CasselIn the intense psychological thriller, Black Swan, ballet dancer Nina Sayers (Natalie Portman) finds herself in a high-stakes race for the lead role in Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake. She grapples with her demanding director Thomas Leroy (Vincent Cassel) and the arrival of rival ballerina Lily (Mila Kunis). As pressures mount, Nina's grip on reality begins to slip. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, this film earned Portman an Academy Award for Best Actress. A vivid exploration of obsession and perfection, Black Swan is a cinematic tour de force.More Black Swan
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- 30Jessica Alba, Mekhi Phifer, RomeoHoney Daniels (Jessica Alba) dreams of making a name for herself as a hip-hop choreographer. When she's not busy hitting downtown clubs with her friends, she teaches dance classes at a nearby community center in Harlem, N.Y., as a way to keep kids off the streets. Honey thinks she's hit the jackpot when she meets a hotshot director (David Moscow) who casts her in one of his music videos. But, when he starts demanding sexual favors from her, Honey makes a decision that will change her life.More Honey
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