Introduction to Baz Luhrmann’s Debut
Generations unfamiliar with the origins of TV’s Strictly Come Dancing or the earlier Come Dancing show should revisit Baz Luhrmann’s 1992 directorial debut, Strictly Ballroom. This film is a goofy, endearing, and sweetly romantic story that established Luhrmann as a notable filmmaker. It was a feelgood Australian crowdpleaser that boldly embraced ballroom dancing, a dance form that was not widely considered fashionable at the time, though it has since gained more mainstream appeal.
The film’s use of the word “strictly” in its title signaled a defiant tone. It highlighted ballroom dancing’s passionate following and underdog status, similar to the cult admiration for ABBA depicted in PJ Hogan’s 1994 film Muriel’s Wedding, which also featured veteran Australian actor Bill Hunter in a comparable role.
Influence on Television Dance Competitions
Strictly Ballroom set the narrative foundation for the TV show Strictly Come Dancing. The film’s central relationship between a talented dancer and a courageous novice mirrors the professional-celebrity partnerships on the television series. The subtle eroticism of their growing connection during rehearsals inspired the TV show’s practice montages and backstory elements.
Plot and Characters
The story follows Scott Hastings, portrayed with smoldering intensity by Paul Mercurio, a brilliant ballroom dancer who has trained for a prestigious national championship since childhood. Scott’s mother, Shirley (Pat Thomson), is a teacher and a frustrated dancer, while his father, Doug (Barry Otto), is a withdrawn figure suffering from a traumatic dance-related event revealed climactically at the film’s conclusion.
Scott has previously faced criticism for deviating from traditional dance steps by incorporating flashy, self-devised moves. Although currently partnered with a competent but uninspired dancer, he appears poised to win the championship.
When his partner is unexpectedly unable to compete, shy and unassuming beginner Fran (Tara Morice) approaches Scott to ask if she can dance with him. Fran’s natural humility and talent balance Scott’s arrogance. Her Latin American grandmother (Armonia Benedito) teaches Scott to genuinely feel the rhythm and passion of the music, deepening his approach to dance.
Together, Scott and Fran must confront the conservative and corrupt older generation, embodied by the Australian Dancing Federation’s president, Barry Fife, played by Bill Hunter. Fife is characterized by his toupée and excessive tanning, symbolizing the establishment’s bland and smug control.
Directorial Style and Legacy
The film showcases early examples of Luhrmann’s distinctive directorial style, which would become more refined in his later works. Elements such as dramatic zooms, vivid close-ups, and exaggerated expressions are present, akin to observing an early Wes Anderson film. Although Luhrmann has not returned to straightforward comedy features since, Strictly Ballroom remains a vibrant and exhilarating celebration of dance and storytelling.
“Strictly Ballroom also laid down the narrative template for Strictly Come Dancing; the film’s pairing of the brilliant dancer and the gutsy ingenue became the professional/celeb partnership on TV, and the not-so-secret eroticism of their growing relationship in the rehearsal studio became the small-screen’s all-important practice montage and backstory content.”
“Maybe every subsequent Luhrmann picture has its origin in ballroom dancing, although he has so far not again attempted a straight-ahead comedy feature. It’s a dizzy swirl of fun.”
