The Best Breakdancing Movies
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Calling all b-boys! Breakdancing exploded in the 1980s as part of the young hip-hop scene in Brooklyn and the Bronx. On this list of the top b-boy films, you’ll find genre-defining films from the ‘80s, like Breakin’ and Beat Street. You'll also find acclaimed director Mario Van Peebles's 1985 hit, Rappin’. In addition, this list contains modern classics like You Got Served, a film that took the heart and soul of ‘80s breakdancing and mixed it up for a new generation.
Plenty of interesting documentaries on b-boy culture populate this list of the greatest breakdancing movies, as well. Check out Planet B-boy for an international look at the breakdancing phenomenon. Vote up the best breakdancing movies below, and be sure to let us know what you think in the comment section.
- 1Rae Dawn Chong, Guy Davis, John Chardiet
A classic from 1984, Beat Street explores the burgeoning hip-hop scene in New York City. Featuring Rae Dawn Chong and Guy Davis as aspiring graffiti artist and breakdancer respectively, this movie captures both the passion and struggle faced by its characters. With its memorable dance sequences and unforgettable soundtrack, Beat Street remains a touchstone for fans of b-boy culture.
More Beat Street
- #74 of 78 onThe 75+ Best Dance Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #80 of 146 onThe Best Hood Movies Of All Time
- #27 of 58 onThe Best Black Movies Of The 1980s
- 2Lucinda Dickey, Adolfo Quinones, Michael "Boogaloo Shrimp" Chambers
Breakin' broke ground with its authentic portrayal of street dancing at its finest. Starring Adolfo "Shabba-Doo" Quinones, Michael "Boogaloo Shrimp" Chambers, and Lucinda Dickey as Turbo, Ozone, and Special K respectively – their talent transcended boundaries while leaving an indelible mark on breakdancing history. A must-see for any fan of b-boy culture.
More Breakin'- #87 of 92 onThe Best Movies Of 1984, Ranked
- #67 of 78 onThe 75+ Best Dance Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #135 of 185 onMovies With The Best Soundtracks
- 3Chris Brown, Josh Holloway, Laz Alonso
B-boying takes center stage in Battle of the Year. Starring Josh Holloway, Laz Alonso, and dance icon Chris Brown, this high-energy film chronicles a group of talented dancers as they come together to form an unstoppable crew that will represent the United States at the international Battle of the Year competition. A thrilling ride from start to finish, audiences couldn't help but get caught up in the electrifying performances and powerful teamwork.
- 4Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, Lady Pink, Fab Five Freddy
Wild Style is renowned not just for its breakdancing but also for its exploration of graffiti art and early hip-hop culture. Directed by Charlie Ahearn and starring Lee Quiñones and Lady Pink as Zoro and Rose respectively - this film's impact on urban culture cannot be overstated.
- 5Columbus Short, Meagan Good, Ne-Yo
Columbus Short shines in Stomp the Yard, playing DJ Williams – a troubled but talented dancer who finds redemption through stepping. This film boasts intricate choreography that showcases a unique fusion of traditional African American stepping and modern breakdancing moves, making it a true standout in the genre.
More Stomp the Yard- #69 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #32 of 78 onThe 75+ Best Dance Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #37 of 74 onThe Best Black Sports Movies Ever Made
- 6Lucinda Dickey, Adolfo Quinones, Michael "Boogaloo Shrimp" Chambers
The iconic sequel to Breakin', Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo, sees the return of Turbo, Ozone, and Special K – now facing off against a greedy developer. With its vibrant colors, gravity-defying stunts, and infectious energy, this film became an instant classic for b-boy fans everywhere.
- #132 of 164 onThe Best Movie Sequels Ever Made
- #70 of 78 onThe 75+ Best Dance Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #152 of 185 onMovies With The Best Soundtracks
- 7Marques Houston, Omarion, Jarell Houston
You Got Served stars Marques Houston and Omari Grandberry as friends who lead their dance crew to victory in a high-stakes competition. The film features breathtaking dance battles that have left lasting impressions on breakdancing enthusiasts around the world.
More You Got Served- #167 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #56 of 78 onThe 75+ Best Dance Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #14 of 76 on80+ Great Movies About Black Teens
- 8Channing Tatum, Jenna Dewan, Mario
Channing Tatum burst onto the scene with Step Up, playing a rebellious street dancer who falls for a privileged ballet student (Jenna Dewan). This romantic drama showcases mesmerizing dance routines that expertly blend classical and contemporary styles – proving once again that breakdancing can captivate any audience.
More Step Up- #24 of 168 onThe 150+ Best Teen Romance Movies, Ranked
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- #7 of 78 onThe 75+ Best Dance Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- 9Channing Tatum, Cassie Ventura, Briana Evigan
Step Up 2: The Streets takes breakdancing to new heights with its powerful story of love, redemption, and ambition. Starring Briana Evigan and Robert Hoffman, this sequel delivers unforgettable performances that continue to inspire dancers worldwide.
- #156 of 164 onThe Best Movie Sequels Ever Made
- #87 of 168 onThe 150+ Best Teen Romance Movies, Ranked
- #36 of 78 onThe 75+ Best Dance Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- 10Gamblerz, Ichigeki, Knucklehead Zoo
In Planet B-Boy, acclaimed documentarian Benson Lee takes viewers on an exhilarating journey through the world of competitive breakdancing. Featuring crews from across the globe vying for supremacy at the Battle of the Year event - this film is both an enlightening glimpse into diverse cultures and a testament to the unifying power of dance.
- 11Mos Def, KRS-One, Redman
This comprehensive documentary delves into the origins and evolution of breakdancing, from its birth in the Bronx to its global impact. Featuring interviews with pioneers like Kool Herc and Afrika Bambaataa, The Freshest Kids is an essential watch for anyone interested in b-boy culture.
- 12Rick Malambri, Adam G. Sevani, Sharni Vinson
The third installment in the Step Up franchise brings audiences even closer to the action with its dazzling use of 3D technology. Step Up 3D features a diverse cast of talented dancers, including Rick Malambri and Sharni Vinson, who come together to create an unforgettable spectacle.
More Step Up 3D- #108 of 168 onThe 150+ Best Teen Romance Movies, Ranked
- #40 of 78 onThe 75+ Best Dance Movies Of All Time, Ranked
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- 13Demon, Kase 2, Eric Haze
Style Wars is a seminal documentary that captures the essence of hip-hop culture during its early years. Focusing on graffiti artists and breakdancers alike – this film offers a fascinating look at the creativity, passion, and drive that defined an era.
- 14Rahzel
Red Bull BC One is a renowned annual breakdancing competition that showcases the world's elite b-boys and b-girls. Broadcasted globally, this event has become synonymous with exceptional talent, jaw-dropping moves, and intense battles, making it a must-watch for fans of breakdancing.
- 15Ice-T, Michael Chambers
This documentary provides an in-depth look at the West Coast breakdancing scene, chronicling the lives of aspiring dancers as they navigate through a world of street performances and dance battles. Breakin' and Enterin' features appearances from legends like Ice-T and Michael "Boogaloo Shrimp" Chambers, cementing its status as a crucial piece of b-boy history.
- 16Collins Pennie, David Banner, Keith David
This sequel to Stomp the Yard continues to explore the world of stepping fused with breakdancing. Starring Collins Pennie as Chance Harris, Stomp the Yard: Homecoming delivers intense battles, intricate choreography, and an engaging story that resonates with fans of both genres.
- 17Lorenzo Lamas, Ray Sharkey, Grace Zabriskie
Body Rock stars Lorenzo Lamas as Chilly – a street-smart dancer who finds himself drawn to the world of professional breakdancing. This film's memorable characters and exhilarating dance scenes have earned it a special place in b-boy culture.
- 18Mario Van Peebles, Rodney Harvey, Ralph Cole Jr.
Delivery Boys follows five pizza delivery drivers who dream of becoming professional dancers. With its catchy soundtrack and dynamic dance sequences, this film offers a lighthearted and entertaining look at the pursuit of breakdancing success.
- 19John Scott Clough, Don Franklin, Tamara Mark
In Fast Forward, directed by Sidney Poitier, eight teenagers from Ohio form a diverse dance troupe with dreams of making it big in New York City. Showcasing an array of styles including breakdancing, this film highlights the power of perseverance and unity in achieving one's goals.
- 20Aimee Garcia, Drew Sidora, Missy Yager
B-Girl tells the story of Angel (played by Julie "Jules" Urich), a talented dancer who dreams of breaking free from her troubled past to make it big in the competitive world of breakdancing. This inspiring film focuses on female empowerment within the male-dominated b-boy culture.
- 21Jamie Kennedy, Miguel A. Núñez, Maria Menounos
In Kickin' It Old Skool, Jamie Kennedy stars as Justin Schumacher – a breakdancer who awakens from a 20-year coma to find that everything he knew about dancing has changed. Undeterred, Justin reunites his old crew to relive their glory days and save their community center through dance.
- 22
Inside the Circle
Inside the Circle is a documentary that delves into the lives of three Texas-based breakdancers as they navigate through love, friendship, and rivalry. This insightful film showcases not only their passion for dancing but also how it shapes their personal relationships.
- 23Liza Minnelli, Gene Kelly, Sammy Davis
That's Dancing! is an expansive celebration of dance on film throughout history. Featuring iconic moments from various genres including tap, ballet, modern dance, and breakdancing – this documentary offers viewers an extensive look at how dance has evolved over time.
- 24
Mismatched Couples
Donnie Yen, Yuen Woo-ping, May Lo Mei-MeiDonnie Yen stars in Mismatched Couples, a Hong Kong comedy that combines martial arts and breakdancing. The film's unique blend of styles, along with its humor and impressive dance sequences, has made it a cult favorite among b-boy enthusiasts.
- 25
From Mambo to Hip Hop
From Mambo to Hip Hop is a fascinating documentary that explores the rich musical heritage of New York City's South Bronx neighborhood. Providing insights into various music genres like salsa, mambo, hip-hop, and highlighting their connection to breakdancing, this film offers a unique perspective on the cultural roots of b-boy culture.
