Fridae

There are a few things about this movie that may stop you from
watching it.

1) It is a documentary.

2) It is low-budget.

3) It is about disadvantaged kids from poor neighborhoods taking
up ballroom dancing.

4) It has a boring, unimaginative title.

Now put your reservations aside, take our expert advice and go
watch this film. Despite the lousy title, Mad Hot Ballroom is
a sweet, funny and charming picture. And it is easily the best new
film to open this week.

The film traces the progress of several kids from working-class
and middle-class homes in New York who are taught ballroom dancing
for free by trainers from the American Ballroom Institute. Their
lessons culminate in a citywide dancing contest, which tests the
talent and nerves of the students and teachers.

What's amazing is that when you first see these lively and mischievous
10-year-old kids, you may be quick to doubt that they could ever
master the poise and technique demanded in ballroom dancing. But
they do, in ways that will surprise even the toughest of cynics.
And you quickly come to care about their hopes, joys and disappointments.

Considering that many scripted movies fail to engage audiences
on even the most basic emotional level, Mad Hot Ballroom
is a genuine triumph in human drama. A must-watch for documentary
lovers, schoolteachers and everyone else who want to witness the
awesome sight of awkward young people finding grace and confidence
through art.