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That's Dancing!

Name: That's Dancing!
Director: Jack Haley Jr.
Released: 1985
Duration: 105 min

Representation Score

3.2/10

Limited

1985

Director

Jack Haley Jr.

Runtime

105 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

That's Dancing! serves as a nostalgic look at cinematic dance, focusing on preserving Hollywood's historical landmarks. The film's structure follows the evolution of dance from early cinema through the 1980s music video era. While the documentary includes the natural diversification of dance styles, such as 1980s breakdancing, its core remains centered on the classical studio system. The focus stays on established entertainment forms rather than social disruption. Ultimately, the film celebrates Western art and technology. It documents the technical and stylistic progression of dance without actively challenging traditional social or cultural norms.

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Category Breakdown

Does That's Dancing! have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film acts as a chronological survey of dance history. It doesn't include specific stories that challenge traditional assumptions about sexuality or gender.

How does That's Dancing! portray gender?

Fair

The documentary explores the development of the movie musical, a genre often defined by traditional gender roles. It tends to emphasize classic feminine roles and hierarchical structures.

How racially and ethnically diverse is That's Dancing!?

Fair

The film captures the transition from predominantly white studio casts to more diverse urban dance cultures. However, it continues to highlight Western, Anglo-centric traditions.

How does That's Dancing! represent religion and culture?

Limited

The narrative celebrates the achievements of Western cinema. It focuses on the progression of art and technology without questioning underlying institutions.

Does That's Dancing! include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no documented evidence regarding the portrayal of visible or invisible disabilities within this historical overview.

Present on Screen

Captures the natural diversification of dance styles through the inclusion of 1980s breakdance and music video culture.

Limited or Absent

Maintains a heavy focus on Western, Anglo-centric traditions.
Reinforces traditional gender hierarchies and classical feminine roles found in early musical eras.
Lacks intentional narratives that challenge traditional assumptions about sexuality or gender.

Official Synopsis

A documentary film about dancing on the screen, from its origins after the invention of the movie camera, over the movie musical from the late 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s, up to the break dance and music videos from the 80s.

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