Baz Luhrmann's debut feature film from 1992, 'Strictly Ballroom', is being reissued for a new generation. This goofy, lovable, and sweetly romantic film is the feelgood crowdpleaser from Australia that launched Luhrmann's career. It explains the origin of the name for TV's 'Strictly Come Dancing' and showcases ballroom dancing as a passionate, underdog sport.
The Story of Scott Hastings
Brilliant young ballroom dancer Scott Hastings, played smoulderingly by Paul Mercurio, has been training for a national championship since age six. His mother Shirley (Pat Thomson) is a frustrated dance teacher, and his father Doug (Barry Otto) is depressed due to a dance-related trauma revealed later. Scott has a history of improvising flashy moves, but now he seems poised to win with his competent but uninspired partner.
However, when fate intervenes, shy beginner Fran (Tara Morice) asks Scott to dance with her. Her humility and natural talent temper his arrogance, especially after her Latin American grandmother (Armonia Benedito) teaches Scott to truly feel the rhythm. Together, they must confront the corrupt dance establishment, epitomized by the toupéed president Barry Fife (Bill Hunter).
Luhrmann's Signature Style
The film showcases early versions of Luhrmann's signature directorial style: zooms, garish close-ups, and dramatic flourishes. This dizzying swirl of fun laid the narrative template for 'Strictly Come Dancing', with the professional-celebrity partnership and erotic rehearsal montages. 'Strictly Ballroom' is a classic ugly-duckling tale that remains a crowdpleaser.
The film is now available in UK and Irish cinemas and on digital platforms from 12 June.
