Dirty Dancing: An 80s Movie Review

In junior high, I watched Dirty Dancing excitedly as a rental. I also listened to the soundtrack playing over pool splashing during the summer of 1987 or '88.

I wondered though after about 21 years (time travels fast!), was this fond nostalgia just one of memories that didn't quite live up to their high-color sentimentality when looked back at objectively?

Recently I had a chance to judge the classic 80s movie, Dirty Dancing, without any seventh grade romantic, rose-colored glasses. Apparently this is really one of those underdog movies that was supposed to be cheap and B quality without much expectations. As most of us know, It turned out to be a hit.

"Nobody puts Baby in a corner", Patrick Swayze memorably tells Baby's, or Frances', father, while taking her by the arm to finally initiate Baby into Grown-Up Land. Yes, she loves her father and her family but her life is her own, as a confident woman.

I could go on about Dirty Dancing and tell you it's a classic coming-of-age story, about Baby and her soon-to-be lover in Swayze. Here is what I think truly gels it: Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey have really good chemistry in this.

It really comes down to that, and excellent acting (apparently off-stage the two weren't so crazy about each other, which might explain that chemisty). The young and vulnerable sexuality of the actors in this movie is subtle and enjoyable to watch, and the movie does an excellent job of transporting you to a different time, setting and overall feeling, where you truly feel you are in a different place and culture.

Although the story is not the most original, it's not cheesy or tacky or insulting to your intelligence. It is entertaining, sexy, and at the end, gives your heart a lift.