Top 10 Best Breakdancing Scenes in Movies

“Flashdance” (1983)
Known as a seminal film from the 1980s, “Flashdance” features all kinds of energetic choreographies. Working-class hero Alex Owens dreams of moving from welding to dance. With the movie embracing everything from ballet to breakdancing, this scene spotlights the diversity of styles. Owens spots a group tearing it up outside, and is clearly taken with the performers. The light-hearted routine champions the artistic trends of the time. It’s also a moment that inspires the character even further, with her audition later incorporating some awesome moves (xref). Plus, the entire thing also brings out the casual and joyful nature of the artform.

“Honey” (2003)
Not all the best performers train in a studio. With this scene from “Honey,” the title character runs into some extraordinary breakdancers outdoors. Needless to say, they more than deliver with their undisputed talents. Along with some clear swagger, Benny and his cohort show Honey that there’s fantastic work being done on the street. The slick moves wow her, with the instructor offering the kids an invitation to her class. While the scene features some great breakdancing, it also tries to cross the divide between formal training and raw talent. The results are one unforgettable part of an entertaining dance movie.

“Wild Style” (1983)
In the earlier days of rap and breakdancing, movies like “Wild Style” served as a time capsule. The film includes all kinds of artists, emcees, and b-boys that come together to show off their abilities. The finale allows many of them to excel, providing more than a few chances to excite the audience. These breakdancers are part of an amazing event, highlighting their connection to hip-hop culture. Celebrating music through motion, this moment gives us all the thrills we could want from wonderful choreography. It’s a historical document with as many power moves as influential figures, like the Rock Steady Crew. What more could you want?

“Step Up” (2006)
In the first “Step Up” movie, breakdancing blends other dance styles. This is especially clear in the exciting ending. While Nora Clark has more traditional and ballet-based choreo, Tyler Gage busts out his hip-hop influences. The end sequence finds a way to allow for both bold movements and intimate moments. After offering up a romantic interlude, the characters transition into a section with more lively breakdancing. There’s enough here to satisfy all kinds of music and dance lovers. Along with some killer lifts, the dynamic choreography celebrates the skills needed to pull off this kind of grooving.

“Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo” (1984)
Released in the same year as the original, “Breakin’ 2” tries its best to create more musical set pieces. This includes a scene where a parade of people dance through the streets. With a carefree attitude, it’s a positive tribute to breakdancing that brings together an entire community of artists. We get to watch dancers of all ages break out their favorite moves. Along the way, the cast and extras create a fun-filled atmosphere that we wish we could join. Regardless of how you feel about the larger film, this sequence from “Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo” lets b-boys and b-girls shine with or without a stage.

“You Got Served” (2004)
For all of the spectacular breakdancing in “You Got Served,” it saves its best visuals for last. As the two teams battle it out in the final, they unleash amazing choreo on each other. We’re talking cool spins, acrobatic flips, and other moves showcasing their strength. Each group dishes out their finest poses and finishers. Some even make themselves look like they’re moving in slow-motion. In the end, these miraculous moves give David and Elgin’s squad the advantage. The heroes have a chance to properly serve their opponents, and we get a true rhythmic treat.

“Step Up 3D” (2010)
Near the end of this fun sequel, the skilled Pirates come up against the fearsome Samurai. The climactic battle combines the best of the “Step Up” franchise into one showstopper after another. We watch as breakdancers assemble in highly-technical routines. With perfect timing and synchronization, they make it all look effortless. The camera puts the groups on notice with everything from robotic movements to lightning-quick reflexes. There’s also some notable outfits to punctuate the dancers’ hard work. By the time they reach the final flourish, we’re exhausted by the sheer amount of talent on display.

“Beat Street” (1984)
Pulling out all of the stops, “Beat Street” culminates in an action-packed ending. We’re talking about all kinds of breakdancers doing head spins and impressive moves. It goes without saying, but it’s exciting to see this much talent on display. That’s saying nothing of the gospel choir, which only livens things up more. Soon, most of the ensemble crowds the stage in a sign of musical solidarity. This finale definitely doesn’t skimp on the production values or the dedicated performances. We’re taking in the sights and we love it – we just wish we could jump through the screen to see it all in person.

“Breakin’” (1984)
It’s one of the most famous breakdancing movies, with great numbers like the thrilling finale. Earlier in the film, “Breakin’” showcases the work of performers like Boogaloo Shrimp. As Turbo, he does an iconic routine with a broom. The solo sequence provides more than a few chances to show off. It’s bursting with creativity, giving Shrimp a chance to entertain and wow audiences with his brilliance. He manipulates the object and performs maneuvers that aren’t for the faint of heart. The breakdancer delivers mind-bending moves, making you wonder if he can bend the laws of physics.

“Step Up 2: The Streets” (2008)
If you think regular breakdancing is hard, try doing it in the rain – the result is this wet routine, which really takes things to the next level. The addition of carefully-placed lights gives the sequence extra flair, too. Not worried about the weather, the dancers put their bodies on the line to entertain us. The puddles only enhance their unbelievable movements. With their feet splashing and gliding through slick terrain in this stylish scene, they never fail to entertain. You might be asking yourself how they pull off so many breathtaking moves without slipping – we are too.

Did we forget another incredible breakdancing scene? Let us know in the comments below