Not just your typical 80's fluff, it's got heart.

Rating: 7/10 (2 April 2010)

Footloose is far from an original movie, but it's got the heart it needs to be an entertaining 80's diversion. What I love about the 80's is the cheese factor, and Footloose has plenty of that, but in a good way, that's one thing a lot of movies lack now a days. Kevin Bacon is pretty solid and charismatic in his 1st lead role, but the heart and sole of the movie in my opinion is Lori Singer. I just found more to relate to her then I did Ren's character. It has all the usual typical 80 clichés, like abusive men, cheesy dance sequences, classic 80's songs, and a happy ending, but that is one of the reason why 80's movies were so great, they have the heart like a lot movies now a days don't have. The best sequence in the movie had to be where Ren|Bacon| teaches Williard|Chris Penn| how to dance, it's funny and quite touching at the same time. Footloose isn't a masterpiece, nor is it gonna make your day, but it will do is entertain you for 100 or so minutes.
Performances. Kevin Bacon is pretty good in his 1st starring role. This is the role that pretty much made him a star, but he does have his green moments. Lori Singer is beautiful, and gives the best performance in the film. I was amazed by her ferocity and how she wouldn't back down from anything, and I felt sorry for what she had to deal with. John Lithgow gives an excellent performance as an over-protective preacher. He will test your patience, but he is so good, you can't help but appreciate him. Chris Penn is really good in a supporting role, as Ren's best friend. Sarah Jessica Parker has a small role as Rusty, she was too cute.
Bottom line. Footloose is an entertaining 80's film. It's great for nostalgia reasons, and it will put a smile on your face when all is said and done. Recommended
7/10