Cast
View All
Vanessa Williams
as Ruby Sinclair
Chayanne
as Rafael Infante
Kris Kristofferson
as John Burnett
Joan Plowright
as Bea Johnson
Jane Krakowski
as Patricia Black
Beth Grant
as Lovejoy
Victor Marcel
as Fernando
Harry Groener
as Michael
William Marquez
as Stephano
Bill Applebaum
as Don Harrington
Angelo Pagán
as Cuban Mailman
Erika Landin
as Salsa Club Dancer
Crew
Director
- Randa Haines
Writer
- Daryl Matthews
Producer
- Randa Haines
- Shinya Egawa
- Lauren Weissman
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Dance with Me examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Randa Haines brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1998, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Dance with Me took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 126 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 154 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1967 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 68 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1998, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Dance with Me shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Show Boat, which focuses more on action than character development, Dance with Me subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like A Song Is Born and U2: Vertigo 2005 - Live from Chicago explore similar territory, Dance with Me stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 21, 1998
- Runtime: 2h 6m
- Revenue: $15,923,122
