Strictly Ballroom: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
A decade before his postmodern rompMoulin Rougebrought the film musical high-kicking and (occasionally) screaming into the 21st century, director Baz Luhrmann debuted his oft-dizzying transgenre musical tack in this, his film debut. Set against the obsessive world of Australian dance competitions, the first of what's become known as Luhrmann's "Red Curtain Trilogy" (which also includesRomeo + JulietandMoulin Rouge) stands hoary Hollywood clichés on their head. The music is an irresistibly tipsy cocktail that mixes orchestral contributions by Australian film composerDavid Hirschfelder(Elizabeth) with the songs of Aussie pop writing/performing/producing legends Harry Vanda and George Young (the Easybeats, Flash and the Pan, AC/DC, and others) and dashes of everything from chugging Latin rhythms to Cyndi Lauper. Trading onMoulin's reputation and popularity, this upgraded edition features an expanded track listing that now includes "London Derriere," Hirschfelder's loopy/schmaltzy take on "Danny Boy," exotica conductor Stanley Black's infectious "Os Quindins de Ya Ya," and bandleader Jack Hilton's vintage romp through the standard "Happy Feet."--Jerry McCulley