Top 10 Romantic Ballroom Dances In Movies
#10: “Strictly Ballroom” (1992)
The world of competitive ballroom dancing is decidedly cut throat with little room for originality or stepping out of line. In this Australian romantic comedy, Scott is struggling with all of that when he finds himself partnerless and pressured into joining with another star dancer. But Scott only has eyes for the talented but quite normal looking Fran. When these two dance together, the air sizzles with passion, drawing everyone to turn and watch their every move. They don’t even notice the others watching and only see each other, never breaking eye contact.
#9: “The Sound of Music” (1965)
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During a party hosted at the von Trapp Family house, Maria - the governess - is asked by Captain von Trapp to dance. It’s fun at first, showing the children the intricate step work of the Ländler and both parties are even smiling at each other. But as the music picks up, and their steps bring them closer, both seem to realize there’s more to their dance than just carefree fun. Maria even pauses, quickly claiming to have forgotten the rest of the dance so she can hide her red face, along with her newfound feelings for the usually stoic Captain.
#8: “The Mask of Zorro” (1998)
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Few things are more attractive than Antonio Banderas and Catherine Zeta-Jones dancing to a traditional Spanish tune as they hold the whole room in rapt attention. As Alejandro and Elena, the two have a dance that is probably the most suggestive on our list, reminding us that not all romance is soft and sweet. Sometimes it’s hot and quick, leaving us breathless. And it only adds to the scene when Alejandro blames Elena for the dance, calling her ‘spirited’ as she is the love interest he’s not allowed to have.
#7: “Funny Face” (1957)
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So many love stories are about a man and a woman from two different worlds, coming together to find harmony with each other. This 1950s film is no exception, but it does stand out because the dance number after Dick and Jo admit their feelings for one another is a perfect encapsulation of their relationship. They move together and then they don’t, and then they do. She has a more hurried step around him, while he remains steadfast and poised, shifting to meet each of her wild spins. The two don’t fit and yet somehow they do, in this sweet and perfect moment - though we must say the end dance is quite s’wonderful as well! (xref)
#6: “Cinderella” (2015)
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It’s a classic tale of romance retold in live action. There’s a hesitation coming from Cinderella as they’re dancing in the beginning. She’s secretly a servant girl, certainly not used to dancing in a room full of such finely dressed people. She insists that the entire room is staring at him, because why would they notice someone like her? However, as the dance proceeds and the entire room keeps staring, you can see her smile become more genuine. The prince is telling the truth; they are staring at her, and Cinderella begins to enjoy her impossibly perfect night.
#5: “Dirty Dancing” (1987)
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There are few scenes that end a movie better than this iconic dance. At the end of the season talent show, the two main characters show off their relationship in a song and dance that gets the whole room moving. The look of joy on Baby’s face throughout the song can’t be missed and the image of Johnny dancing on the floor with the crowd while she watches him with complete trust and love is perfect. And then, of course, that climactic lift, which perfectly caps off the film and a summer no one will ever forget.
#4: “Enchanted” (2007)
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As a princess from an fantasy world, Giselle has several different ideas about how the world is supposed to work - none of which seem to match with the reality of divorce lawyer Robert. Her animated personality and his stoic demeanor don’t mesh, so she’s set to go back to her own world - but not before one last dance. Set to the aptly titled ‘So Close,” it’s clear in their expressions that there’s something about their relationship that does mesh incredibly well, even if neither is sure what to say. Giselle’s pained look at the end is heartbreaking as she realizes she’s about to leave the man she truly loves.
#3: “Top Hat” (1935) Romance comes in many forms and this scene is the whole package. Due to a bit of a misunderstanding, Jerry Travers is having more than a little trouble wooing Dale Tremont and he has to pull out all the stops. From a sweet and sincere serenade, to a dance that completely ignores anyone else around them to the music in the background, how could anyone resist being swept away by his charm and sincerity? While it might not be as overly dramatic as some of the entries on this list, the good ol’ romance is there in spades.
#2: “Pride & Prejudice” (2005) The dance is cold and stiff as these two play out their expected roles - and it initially doesn’t seem romantic at all. However, this forces the audience to focus on the words between Elizabeth Bennet and the infamous Mr. Darcy rather than their movements and loving glances. As such, we’re treated to a game of verbal tennis where Elizabeth is sure she has the upper hand, only for her to lose track of the entire room and find herself in the presence of Mr Darcy and even more vulnerable than before. The clock hasn’t struck midnight quite yet, so let’s sneak in a few honorable mentions: “Addams Family Values” (1993) “A Royal Affair” (2012) “Singin’ in the Rain” (1952)
#1: “Beauty and the Beast” (1991)
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After being held captive in the Beast’s castle, the brave Belle comes to discover there’s more to him than his monstrous appearance. In this stunning scene, we’re treated to a romantic dinner and dance as the two attempt to set aside their fears and see if there’s something more between them. And while this scene was also repeated in the live action movie, the slightly different setup of the animated film turns the romance up just the right amount, leaving us to hope that the amazing night will never end.
