Top 10 Most Influential Dance Movies

Mikhail Baryshnikov and Gregory Hines join forces for this underrated ‘80s film. In a tale of Cold War defectors, both performers come together for an energetic blend of dancing influences. The plot is largely an excuse to put both legends in the same room for numbers like “Prove Me Wrong,” but it’s worth it. The late Hines’ tap talents mix effortlessly with his Russian counterpart’s ballet training. Baryshnikov also gets a chance to shine in a solo dance, once again proving to the world that he’s one of the 20th century’s premier talents. And on the whole, the choreography by famed artist Twyla Tharp shines. Including an Oscar-winning song by Lionel Richie, the movie features a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration at its core.

Starring Fred Astaire and Jane Powell, “Royal Wedding” might initially seem like your standard musical. The story about dancers falling in love doesn’t revolutionize the genre, but the numbers definitely do. Astaire truly shines here as a solo performer. One of the most notable scenes involves him dancing with a hatrack. His ability to create chemistry with inanimate objects is especially impressive, along with his other gravity-defying talents. We’re, of course, referencing the film’s most famous sequence, where Astaire’s character dances on the walls and ceiling. Spawning a legion of copycats, these incredible feats set “Royal Wedding” apart.

Directed by Powell and Pressburger, this musical remains a major influence for its incredible staging and technical craftsmanship. Moira Shearer stars a ballet dancer that dedicates herself to a new company at the cost of her relationship. Full of backstage and onstage drama, the story creates ample opportunity for the performers to flourish. The main number in particular acts as a showcase of exquisite choreography and direction. Held in high esteem by legends like Martin Scorsese, “The Red Shoes” has gained another life as a restored classic that continues to teach modern filmmakers. Indeed, the movie’s finest moments set a standard for spotlighting ballet on the silver screen.

At a time when there weren’t many other big dance movies, “Center Stage” came around to re-energize the genre. The plot follows students as they dream big at a prestigious New York ballet school. Bringing together a talented ensemble, the story focuses on the trials and tribulations of becoming a performer. We’re treated to a combination of older and more modern ballet styles, which helps welcome younger audiences into the fold. This feels especially true in the climactic sequence, which has the various dancers bring their unique abilities into an amazing show. It might not have been an instant success, but the movie has deservedly become something of a cult classic.

Taking dancing out of the traditional stages, “Breakin’” brought a whole new, refreshing side to the music film. Indeed, it was among the first mainstream showcases of breakdancing on screen. Depicting changing trends in pop culture, it also serves as an important ‘80s time capsule, highlighting the work of artists dancing everywhere from Venice Beach to ordinary streets. Featuring Ice-T in an early role, the musical further shows off all that hip hop has to offer. Viewers today might find it dated, but it’s undeniably an important stepping stone in introducing breaking to a larger audience.

This film and its memorable soundtrack took audiences by storm in the ‘80s. Actress Jennifer Beals stars as a welder that dreams of becoming a dancer. Her iconic performance brings together famous moves and fashion choices, as her character Alex works toward the goal of being taken seriously as a performer. Along the way, Alex gives us countless unforgettable dance scenes set to toe-tapping music that never get old. We’d be remiss not to mention her routine to "He's a Dream," which features an iconic water drop that’s been endlessly imitated. All of her efforts culminate in a final audition set to Irene Cara’s title song, with energetic choreography selling the dramatic moment. The film is a dance masterpiece, to say the least.

Synonymous with the disco craze of the 1970s, “Saturday Night Fever” made a full-blown star out of John Travolta. His character is introduced in an iconic walk down the street set to Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive,” and it just gets better from there. Using the group as a big part of its musical backdrop, the wildly successful film creates something electric. Indeed, Travolta gets a chance to shine on the dance floor with solo, duo, and group routines alike. The glowing disco clubs and eclectic setlist, for their part, help bolster one classic sequence after another. Telling the tale of an ordinary man’s extraordinary moves, this flick (and its epic soundtrack) won’t soon be forgotten.

Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers epitomized what a good on-screen dance couple is. Fans can argue about which of their collaborations is the best, but “Top Hat” ranks near the top of the heap. It allows the duo to do ballroom and tap numbers set to Irving Berlin music, and they bring it. It goes without saying, but they do so on gorgeous sets and in wonderful outfits. Speaking of costumes, Astaire dons an iconic ensemble in the “Top Hat, White Tie and Tails" sequence. More than that though, tells a story through tap, aided by props, other dancers, and well-timed steps. His solo work on this project might be his most laudable screen effort, while his work with Rogers continues to inform modern musicals.

Powered by Leonard Bernstein’s music and Stephen Sondheim’s lyrics, this film adaptation takes flight. The Sharks and Jets battle on the streets of New York, showing off their best moves in the process. Taking Romeo and Juliet into the 20th century, the movie doesn’t waste any time in showcasing breathtaking choreography. Jerome Robbins collaborates with co-director Robert Wise to create some of the most impressive pieces in movie musical history. Throughout, performers such as Russ Tamblyn, George Chakiris, and Rita Moreno shine in vibrant routines. Whether it’s the famous mambo sequence or the “America” scene, each amazing maneuver feels lively and thoughtful, captivating audiences everywhere.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Dirty Dancing” (1987)
A Famous Lift Caps off This ‘80s Hit About Baby & Johnny

“A Chorus Line” (1985)
Dancers Compete for a Shot at Broadway in This Classic Adaptation

“Strictly Ballroom” (1992)
Baz Luhrmann Starts His Feature Film Career with a Stellar & Stylized Look Into Dance Competitions

“The Turning Point” (1977)
A Dramatic Journey Into New York Ballet Features Stand Out Performances

“Step Up” (2006)
A Successful Franchise Is Born From This First Entry About Unlikely Dance Partners

Among the most famous Hollywood musicals ever, “Singin’ in the Rain” isn’t considered one of the best for nothing. Its energetic story glides through the history of the early sound era with help from Gene Kelly’s talents. In addition to starring, he co-directs this film with Stanley Donen, charting a course through a brilliant catalog of songs that includes the epic title number. Kelly expertly dances his way through an effortless performance that rivals his work in classics like “Anchors Aweigh”. The rest of the cast is phenomenal as well, with Donald O'Connor and Debbie Reynolds cutting one heck of a rug. In other words, this movie musical is practically bursting with impressive dancing that has inspired countless artists and productions.