Review of Footloose (1984) by Johnny T — 03 Sep 2011

The movie features some good dancing -- not nearly enough, however -- and a fine, understated performance by Lithgow in a role that might easily lend itself to caricature. Footloose wasn't exactly a critical fave, but it didn't try to be hip and it had a relatively light touch, with recognizable human beings on the screen. Essential to the result is young Kevin Bacon, superb in the lead part. Bacon really just wants to get along in the small town he's been forced to move to from Chicago. Sure to complicate his life, however, is pretty Lori Singer, a sexually and otherwise confused preacher's daughter. Herbert Ross directed this odd but reasonably effective blend of rock music and didactic melodrama. In addition to his usual directorial skill and considerable choreographic experience, Herb Ross brings to Footloose an adult sensibility often lacking in troubled-teen pics.

VERDICT: "Matinée" - (Mixed reaction). These kinds of movies are usually movies that had some good things, but some bad things kept it from being amazing. This rating says to pay matinée prices to see at a theatre, buy an ex-rental or a cheap price of the DVD to own.