When word let out that a "Footloose" remake was in progress, I was highly skeptical. Since its original 1984 release, "Footloose" has become a classic teen dance film, defining the genre and setting an example for subsequent films, such as "Save the Last Dance" and "Step Up." The idea of modernizing a cornerstone of '80s filmdom made me cringe. Yet, curiosity compelled me to investigate what could have been a defaming of one of my favorite teen movies.
Before I pass down the verdict, I'll review what exactly made the original "Footloose" such a timeless film worthy of surviving the last 27 years. The story of a big-city outsider shaking up a small town and challenging the laws and beliefs of a community in order to create positive change is an inspiring message to American youth. The plot is based on the real events that took place in Elmore City, Oklahoma, where dancing was illegal for almost 100 years. "Footloose" covered a range of topics from grief and loss to teenage rebellion and Christian influence. Kevin Bacon was iconic in the role of Ren McCormack, a Chicago teen with a smooth attitude and even smoother dance moves. All in all, the original Footloose was raw, energetic and uplifting. It also had a powerful soundtrack. So why remake it? Why potentially ruin a good thing?
It's difficult to believe that the original was released almost three decades ago. It makes me realize that even when I first saw it as a little girl, it was still over fifteen years old. I may have grown up watching '80s movies, but that doesn't necessarily mean that future generations will. "Footloose" does have a timeless plot, but some parents might have a difficult time getting their kids to watch something that looks so outdated. A remake could potentially breathe new life into a story that should be told. Did it do the original justice?
Kenny Wormald, a lesser-known actor from "Center Stage 2," replaces Bacon as the misunderstood Ren McCormack who moves to the small town of Bomont, Georgia. Ren is from Boston in the remake, probably to compensate for Wormald's natural New England accent, which increased the sense that he was an obvious outsider. Wormald's performance was engaging enough, but lacked the electricity and emotion of Bacon. For example, the warehouse dance scene, where Ren blows off steam through a serious of acrobatic moves, is not as enthralling as the original. It may have had something to do with the absences of "Never" by Moving Pictures playing in the background, but considering his years of dance experience, I expected Wormald to blow me away. Instead, I felt more of a light breeze. Bacon's air punching and incredible aerial spins could have pumped up any audience. Wormald's take was much more aggressive and destructive in an alarming way.
Julianne Hough from "Dancing with the Stars" filled the role of Ariel Moore, the Reverend's free-spirited, rebellious daughter. Despite her impressive dancing ability and piercing blue eyes, Hough could not compare to Lori Singer as Ariel. Singer made Ariel appear to be dangerously beautiful and lost in her desire to feel free from father's influence. On the other hand, Hough wasn't quite as stunning. For instance, the scene when Ariel plays a game of chicken with a train was far more emotional in the original. Singer's earth shattering scream just before Bacon pushes her out of the way made her seem wild and vulnerable.
By comparison to the original, the remake falls short. Objectively, there may be hope for the "Footloose" of 2011. The plot basically remained the same and the script was only tweaked a bit. The performances of Wormald and Hough were entertaining and enjoyable, even if they weren't exactly rave-worthy. At the very least, Wormald and Hough had clear on-screen chemistry together. Miles Teller from "Rabbit Hole" as the tough, southern, cut-up Willard Hewitt rivals Christopher Penn's portrayal. He was equally funny and endearing. Teller has a warmth and energy about him that makes him fun to watch. Whenever there was a crude joke to be made, Teller was there to put a smirk on my face.
On its own, "Footloose" is a good time. It had the right blend of humor, solemnity and impressive dance moves. It was fun to watch this movie unfold, despite the slightly disappointing pang of familiarity. Perhaps it's best that "Footloose" wasn't a clone of the original. It's difficult to out-do a classic. In its own right, the new "Footloose" is a teen dance film that present day teens and future generations can appreciate. It may not withstand the next 30 years, but it'll do for the present.
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