Review of Mad Hot Ballroom (2005) by Jane H — 09 Apr 2007

In simple terms Mad Hot Ballroom follows three classes of kids from there after school ballroom lessons to the competition final. But Mad Hot Ballroom is more than that becasue it unintentionally reveals something more. The three schools reveal alot about childhood and about individuals. First there is the contrast between the three schools. The "pink" school is the least developed, and in a way represents the middle of the road with a friendly teacher both enthusiastic and slighly reluctant kids and two boys who can't dance because of their religion. The real contrast is between the "green" school and the "indigo" school. The kids from the green school are shown discussing boys/girls, playing in a fountain and dancing in front of the mirror. On the other hand the "indigo" school shows something deeper; the kids talk about drug dealers and parental responsiblity, divorce and broken families and when asked about boys the girls want a boy who takes his studies seriously, who knows what he wants in life, will make something of his life and who will respect them and everyone else they date. The contrast is best highlighted in the credits when two of the children are asked what they want to do when they grow up. The boy from the "green" school wants to be an architect because he knows he can build better buildings whereas the girls from the "indigo" school used to want to be a lawyer until she realised how lengthy the proceedure is before she will earn any money.

I feel it draws out some interesting themes about childhood, naivety and innocence. When the green team don't make it to the semis; they do what we as adults cannot do; they cry and say it isn't fair. We never doubt however that the indigo team will win because they have a sort of fierceness which lets you know they will suceed.

Another interesting story which came out was that of the two teachers both of whom are brought to tears at some stage in the film. The first becasue she wants to shelter her children from diappointment; first when she has to select thee couples who will enter the competition and secondly when her children cry because they lost. In complete contrast is the second teacher whose tears are almost frustrated, she has set her heart on winning so much. She on the other hand wants to push her kids as hard as she can, she wants them to make something of themselves.

The whole thing provides a fascinating glimpse into the many different cultures and circumstances which exist within the US.