15 Documentaries on Dance Crazes
From Swing to Ska
The rich and vibrant history of dance crazes offers a fascinating glimpse into cultural and social dynamics throughout the decades. From the infusion of African rhythms and European steps in the Lindy Hop during the 1920s, to the energetic and rebellious spirit of the 2 Tone ska movement in the late 70s and early 80s, each dance craze reflects the zeitgeist of its era.
Documentaries on these dance phenomena not only provide an entertaining look at popular dance styles but also offer deeper insights into the musical and cultural landscapes of their times. These films capture the essence of dance movements that have brought people together and left a lasting impact on society.
1) 'The Freshest Dance': From Charleston to Lindy Hop
The documentary explores the dynamic journey from the Charleston to the Lindy Hop.
The Charleston, a dance with African American roots, gained immense popularity in the 1920s. Known for its energetic kicks and twists, it became a social dance sensation.
Lindy Hop emerged in the late 1920s and early 1930s, evolving from the Charleston and jazz dance. It became a vibrant dance form characterized by its fast-paced footwork and impressive aerials. Named after aviator Charles Lindbergh’s 1927 transatlantic flight, the dance carried the spirit of innovation and excitement.
By the mid-1930s, Lindy Hop had captivated dance halls, becoming the peak of swing dance culture. This contagious enthusiasm was reflected in jazz music, with big bands playing at high tempos to match the dancers' energy.
The documentary delves into the connection between music and dance, showing how each influenced and invigorated the other. Featuring archival footage and interviews, it paints a vivid picture of the social and cultural impact of these dance forms.
To learn more about the Charleston, refer to Charleston Dance - Wikipedia. For more information on Lindy Hop, visit Lindy Hop - Wikipedia.
2) 'Soul Movement': The Rise of Disco Fever
Disco music, a genre that reached its zenith in the 1970s, originated from discotheques—dance clubs renowned for playing popular music. These vibrant venues became cultural epicenters, reflecting diverse influences from funk, soul, and psychedelic sounds. Disco's rich history is closely tied to significant social developments.
The origins of disco are rooted in the 1960s' gay activism, notably the Stonewall Riots of 1969. The riots catalyzed the sexual revolution, laying the groundwork for disco to flourish. As the movement spread, it offered an inclusive space for marginalized communities.
Disco fever captivated the mainstream by the mid-1970s. The genre dominated radio stations and music charts, claiming prestigious awards like the Grammys. Clubs thrived with people eager to perfect their dance moves, turning discos into nightly phenomena.
Legendary DJs such as Frankie Knuckles played a pivotal role in shaping disco music. Knuckles and his contemporaries blended disco with R&B, eventually giving rise to house music. Their remixes kept the genre evolving, even as mainstream popularity waned.
Disco's influence extended beyond music. Fashion, dance, and lifestyle were all impacted by this rhythmic revolution. The infectious beats and groovy basslines of disco continue to inspire new generations of artists and dancers, preserving its legacy.
3) 'Punk Paradox': The Industrial Dance Scene
The documentary "Punk Paradox" delves into the evolution and unique characteristics of the industrial dance scene. Emerging from the experimental sounds of the 1980s, industrial dance music fused electronic beats with aggressive punk elements.
This genre gained popularity among audiences disenchanted with mainstream alternative music.
Industrial dance is sometimes referred to as "electronic body music" and features a strong, driving rhythm that compels energetic dance movements. Notable bands in this genre include Front 242 and Nitzer Ebb, whose performances often featured intense choreography and visually striking stage setups.
"Punk Paradox" explores how this scene created a space where diverse groups could come together, united by the music's raw energy.
For more information: Punk Paradox (2021)
4) 'Swing Revival': Dance Mania in the 90s
The 'Swing Revival' of the 1990s brought a renewed interest in swing music and Lindy Hop dance. It started around 1989 and peaked in the mid to late 1990s. The movement was influenced by the big bands of the 1930s and 1940s, integrating rockabilly and boogie-woogie elements.
Young people across America embraced swing music during the late 90s. Movies like Swing Kids (1993) highlighted jazz-obsessed youth, further popularizing the genre. The film featured actors like Christian Bale and Noah Wyle, set against the backdrop of the Third Reich's rise.
The revival seeped into various aspects of pop culture, from music to advertisements. The trend even influenced fashion, as seen in pants commercials that embraced the style. The revival seemed to grow exponentially, fueled by a mix of nostalgia and a desire for high-energy dance music.
Much like third-wave ska, the swing resurgence sprouted from an underground movement. This similarity paved the way for its acceptance, as both genres shared a love for horn-powered dance music. The revival is often remembered today for sparking a brief yet intense cultural phenomenon.
For more information, visit the Wikipedia page on Swing Revival.
5) 'Rhythm Becomes Eclectic': The Post-Disco Movement
The post-disco movement emerged as disco's popularity waned in the early 1980s. Throughout this period, the music landscape saw a blend of styles that incorporated elements from funk, soul, and early electronic music.
Genres like Hi-NRG, electro, and synth-pop became significant. Artists and producers began experimenting more with digital synthesizers and drum machines, creating a distinct sound that resonated with club-goers and radio listeners alike.
Hi-NRG, characterized by its fast tempo and upbeat vibe, found a dedicated audience in the LGBTQ+ community and dance clubs. Electro and early hip hop also drew from the rhythmic foundation set by disco, incorporating rap and breakdancing.
Bands like The Human League and Depeche Mode brought synth-pop to the forefront, with their use of electronic instruments and catchy melodies. This era also saw the rise of influential clubs and DJs who played a crucial role in propagating the eclectic sounds of the post-disco era.
The post-disco movement set the stage for the dance music explosion of the late 80s and 90s, influencing genres such as house and techno. It signified a period of transformation and innovation in popular music, marking a pivotal moment in the history of dance crazes.
6) 'Jitterbug and Jive': America's Dance Craze
The jitterbug dance began capturing the nation's attention in the late 1930s. Originating in African American dance clubs in Harlem, it consolidated various swing dance styles under one umbrella term. This style included genres like Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, and Jive, making jitterbug synonymous with high-energy, synchronized movements.
Cab Calloway's song "Call the Jitter Bug" and the 1934 film "Jitterbug Party" significantly popularized the jitterbug. The dance craze spread further in the 1940s, influenced heavily by U.S. armed forces during World War II. Soldiers introduced jitterbug to new regions, making it internationally recognized.
Jitterbug and jive music often featured a 4/4 time signature with a syncopated rhythm. This musical style contributed to the dance's infectious energy. Swing music icons like Benny Goodman and Glenn Miller also played a vital role in bringing jitterbug into the mainstream.
As with most dance crazes, jitterbug's popularity fluctuated. Initially a counterculture movement, it eventually found acceptance in mainstream American society. Today, elements of jitterbug and jive are still practiced in modern swing dance communities. Its legacy endures, influencing subsequent dance trends and maintaining its place in America's cultural history.
7) 'Hip-Hop Evolution': Street Dance Phenomenon
Hip-hop dance, rooted in the streets of the South Bronx in the 1970s, has grown into a global sensation. This documentary series, titled "Hip-Hop Evolution" (2016), chronicles the dynamic journey of hip-hop culture, including its dance forms.
Narrated by rapper Shad, it features interviews with pioneers who played a crucial role in shaping the genre. These insights help viewers connect with the genesis of hip-hop dance and its social impact.
The documentary delves into how breakdancing, popping, and locking emerged as distinct styles. It illustrates the influence of African American and Latino communities in developing these dance forms.
The series also explores how hip-hop dance has permeated mainstream culture. Clips from music videos, live performances, and dance battles showcase its evolution and influence.
With detailed historical context, "Hip-Hop Evolution" highlights the creativity and resilience of dancers. The series is rich with archival footage that transports viewers back to the origins of the movement.
The documentary underscores the importance of hip-hop dance in expressing identity and resistance. This cultural phenomenon continues to inspire new generations worldwide.
For more information, visit IMDB or Wikipedia.
8) 'The Swing Kids': Cultural Rebellion through Dance
"The Swing Kids" (1993) is a film directed by Thomas Carter, set in Nazi Germany during 1939. It explores a youth subculture that used swing music and dance as forms of rebellion against the oppressive Nazi regime.
These rebellious youths, known as Swing Kids, embraced swing music from banned musicians like Benny Goodman and Count Basie. They wore their hair long, defying the conservative, militaristic appearance promoted by the Nazis.
Swing music was partly used by the Nazis as propaganda, but the Swing Kids used it to resist totalitarian control. They gathered in underground clubs to dance, finding a sense of freedom.
Through rhythmic movements and a fervent love for Western jazz, the Swing Kids symbolized a cultural resistance. Their story demonstrates how art forms like dance can become powerful tools of defiance.
This film captures the intersection of music, dance, and political protest in a poignant way. The Swing Kids' fervent defiance remains an enduring tale of how cultural expression can challenge authoritarianism.
For more information, check out Swing Kids on IMDb.
9) 'Groove and Move': The House Dance Explosion
The documentary film "Groove and Move" explores the vibrant and energetic world of House Dance. Originating in the late 70s and early 80s, House Dance developed in the underground clubs of Chicago and New York.
House Dance is deeply connected to House music, a genre known for its repetitive 4/4 beats and use of electronic sounds. Influences range from Tap and African dance to Latin dance and even martial arts. This eclectic blend gives House Dance its unique flavor and dynamic movement.
The film highlights the importance of social dance and freestyle, showcasing how dancers communicate and express themselves on the dance floor. It emphasizes the communal and inclusive nature of House Dance, which brings people together irrespective of background.
Throughout "Groove and Move," viewers witness the evolution of this dance style, emphasizing its roots in post-disco culture. As disco faded due to commercialisation, House Dance emerged as a fresh and authentic expression of art.
By chronicling the rise of House Dance and featuring interviews with prominent dancers, artists, and DJs, "Groove and Move" sheds light on the cultural impact and enduring legacy of this dance phenomenon.
More about 'Groove and Move' (2022).
10) 'Dancehall Vibes': The Caribbean Influence
"Dancehall Vibes" delves into the vibrant world of dancehall music and its roots in the Caribbean. This documentary highlights how Jamaican culture has significantly influenced the global music scene.
Dancehall music originated from reggae. It carries a unique sound characterized by its upbeat rhythms and bass-heavy beats.
The documentary features interviews with cultural scholars and popular street dancers. These interviews showcase the perspectives of those who have been pivotal to the genre's growth.
Through vivid storytelling, "Dancehall Vibes" unpacks the genre's evolution. It explains how dancehall music has crossed over to influence other musical styles around the world.
More information on "Dancehall Vibes" (2022)
11) 'Rave Culture': Electronic Dance Music Era
This documentary explores the genesis of the rave scene in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It delves into how underground parties evolved into massive festivals.
The film captures the raw energy and spirit of the early days, showcasing the cultural shift brought about by the burgeoning electronic dance music (EDM) scene.
It features interviews with DJs, promoters, and ravers who were essential to the movement. The documentary also highlights how the introduction of ecstasy played a significant role in shaping the social and musical atmosphere of raves.
For more details, see Rave Culture on IMDb
12) 'Breakin' it Down': Breaking and B-Boying
'Breakin' it Down': Breaking and B-Boying (2024) takes viewers through the origins and evolution of breakdancing, also known as b-boying or breaking.
Beginning in the Bronx, New York City, during the late 1960s and early 1970s, this dynamic dance style has roots in African American and Latino communities.
The documentary highlights key elements of breaking, including toprock, downrock, power moves, and freezes. These moves are set to specific music beats, often derived from funk, hip-hop, and breakbeats.
Featuring old-school b-boys and contemporary breakers, the film provides a comprehensive look at the influence of breaking on global dance culture.
Learn more about the art and history of breaking here.
13) 'Jazz Roots': The Original Dance Floors
'Jazz Roots: The Original Dance Floors' (2021) explores the deep-seated history of jazz dance, from its beginnings to its evolution into a popular performance style. The documentary highlights the cultural and historical contexts that shaped jazz dance.
Viewers get a glimpse into how jazz dance began on the plantations of the American South as a form of religious expression and community solidarity.
The film takes audiences through the Harlem Renaissance and its significant impact on the development of jazz dance. It showcases how African-American dancers popularized the dance in nightclubs and dance halls.
Additionally, 'Jazz Roots' places a great emphasis on the interplay between jazz music and dance. It underscores how these two forms continually influenced and evolved with each other, giving rise to iconic dance styles like the Lindy Hop and the Charleston.
Watch 'Jazz Roots: The Original Dance Floors' to understand the origins and transformations of this dynamic and influential dance form.
Learn more about 'Jazz Roots: The Original Dance Floors' on IMDb
14) 'Social Dance': Ballroom to Modern Times
Social dance has evolved dramatically through the decades, reflecting shifts in culture and society. Films about social dance showcase not only the dance moves but also the historical and cultural contexts.
"Mad Hot Ballroom" (2005): This documentary dives into the world of youth ballroom competitions, highlighting 5th graders from New York City public schools as they prepare for a final dance-off. IMDB
"Swing Kids" (1993): Set in pre-World War II Germany, this film follows a group of teenagers who embrace swing dance and music as a form of resistance against the Nazi regime. IMDB
"Blast from the Past" (1999): This romantic comedy features nostalgic scenes of swing dancing, blending humor with a tribute to the dance styles of the past. IMDB
Social dancing ranges from the elegant moves of ballroom to the energetic rhythms of swing. The styles are diverse, including everything from the structured steps of Latin dances to the freeform nature of club dancing. Each type of social dance carries its own set of rules and rituals.
These films offer a lens into how social dance has influenced and been influenced by various social changes. They explore different eras and show the joy, passion, and community fostered through dance. By watching these documentaries, viewers can appreciate the historical significance and enduring appeal of social dance.
15) 'Jump Up': Ska and Two-Tone Traditions
"Jump Up" shines a spotlight on the vibrant ska and Two-Tone movements. The documentary dives into the roots of ska in late-1950s Jamaica, highlighting its fusion of Caribbean mento, calypso, American jazz, and rhythm and blues.
It then transitions to the late 1970s UK where the Two-Tone label emerged, blending punk rock energy with traditional ska rhythms.
Key figures like Madness and The Specials are featured, demonstrating their crucial roles in establishing the genre's popularity. Iconic performances and interviews underscore how these bands shaped the punk-ska sound that resonated with youth culture.
The film also explores themes of racial unity, which were central to the Two-Tone movement. It showcases how ska's infectious beat and socio-political messages brought diverse groups together on the dance floor.
For further details, visit the Wikipedia page on Jump Up (2023).
The Origins and Evolution of Dance Crazes
Dance crazes have a rich and intricate history, driven by cultural shifts, social dynamics, and the evolving landscape of music. Each dance craze brought its own unique flavor, reflecting the zeitgeist of its era.
From Swing to Ska: An Overview
Swing dancing, originating in the lively ballrooms of Harlem in the 1920s, marked the beginning of modern dance crazes. The Lindy Hop, a popular swing dance, combined African rhythms with structured European steps.
As decades passed, new forms of dance emerged. In the 1940s and 1950s, swing morphed into rock 'n' roll dances like the Jitterbug. By the 1980s, ska evolved from Jamaican music, bringing energetic dance styles like skanking to the forefront.
Cultural and Social Impacts
Dance crazes often reflect and influence social and cultural trends. The Savoy Ballroom in Harlem was a melting pot where people of all races and backgrounds danced together, breaking down racial barriers.
In the 1950s, rock 'n' roll dances symbolized teenage rebellion and freedom. Ska, which gained popularity in the 1980s, conveyed a spirit of unity and resistance in response to social and economic challenges in Jamaica and the UK.
These dances did more than entertain; they played pivotal roles in societal transformation.
Influence of Music on Dance
The evolution of music directly impacts dance movements. Jazz music in the 1920s and 1930s gave birth to swing dances. Fast tempos and syncopated rhythms encouraged dynamic and intricate dance steps.
In contrast, ska music's offbeat rhythms and brisk tempos influenced the skanking dance style. Each musical genre brings its own tempo, rhythm, and energy, shaping the corresponding dance crazes.
For example, West Coast Swing incorporates modern music genres, providing dancers with a wide range of expressive possibilities. The synergy between music and dance continues to fuel the ever-evolving landscape of dance crazes.
Key Figures and Iconic Moments
The history of dance crazes has been marked by pioneering figures, unforgettable performances, and visionary storytellers who have documented these movements. This section explores the individuals who have shaped dance culture, their impactful performances, and the creative forces behind the documentaries that preserve these moments.
Pioneers and Innovators
Norma Miller, often referred to as the "Queen of Swing," significantly influenced swing dancing. Her contributions to the Lindy Hop, a dance that emerged in the 1920s, positioned her as a pivotal figure in its history.
Claude Jutra, a Canadian filmmaker, created one of the first skateboarding documentaries, “The Devil’s Toy,” capturing the essence of this nascent sport. His work laid the groundwork for future skateboarding films, showcasing the early culture and rebellious spirit.
In the world of ska, Prince Buster from Jamaica was a key innovator. His music and dance moves from the early ska period set the stage for what would become a worldwide phenomenon. His influence extended beyond music to the dance floors, where ska dancing took root.
Legendary Performances
The Savoy Ballroom in Harlem witnessed legendary performances that spurred dance crazes. The venue hosted countless Lindy Hop dancers and remains a cultural landmark in dance history.
Cyd Charisse and Fred Astaire left indelible marks with their performances in classic Hollywood musicals. Their dance scenes became iconic, influencing generations of dancers and filmmakers.
In the realm of hip-hop, Michael Jackson’s 1983 performance of the moonwalk on the TV special “Motown 25” became an unforgettable moment, cementing his place in dance history. This single performance influenced countless dancers and remains a benchmark for excellence.
Behind the Scenes: Filmmakers and Storytellers
Filmmaker Susan Glatzer directed Alive and Kicking, which chronicles the history of swing dancing. Her work provides deep insights into the birth, decline, and revival of this dance form, making swing accessible to new generations.
Jack Smith, known for his avant-garde style, influenced dance through his film Flaming Creatures. This 1963 movie featured unconventional dance sequences, challenging traditional narratives and expanding the boundaries of dance on film.
Directors like Kathleen Collins in her work “Losing Ground” have highlighted African American cultural expressions, including dance, bringing these narratives to the forefront of cinematic discourse. Her contributions inform and inspire both dance and film communities.
