Doesn't wear well

Rating: 4/10 (2 February 2002)

Having just watched Flashdance for the first time, I can't appreciate the effect that it obviously had at the time on so many of those who've commented here. But looking at Flashdance from almost 20 years later, it doesn't seem to have worn well. The story seems utterly predictable and rather contrived, and the characters are weak. The music (which I *do* remember well from that time) is still excellent, and some of the dance routines are inventive. Others were pretty bad. The closing dance routine is indeed fabulous, but much too short -- for a dance movie, Flashdance doesn't show that much dancing. Even the gorgeous Jennifer Beals (and her dance doubles) couldn't hold my interest. As short as Flashdance was, I was looking at my watch about halfway through. One viewing is plenty for me. 4/10