On August 21st, 1987, the world of entertainment was forever changed. That fateful day marks the release of "Dirty Dancing," the iconic silver screen depiction of a novel by the same name by Eleanor Bergstein, also known as the greatest movie of. all. time.
Maybe you think I'm crazy for making such a bold statement. "You'd choose a cheesy eighties romance over any [insert obscure Indie film director here] film? I, a self-proclaimed and therefore wholly qualified movie critic who turns up a nose to those who say 'movie" instead of 'film' and scorns anyone who can't name at least 6 Stanley Kubrick films, am personally offended."
That's perfectly fine. I am a reasonable girl, and I fully accept that not everyone is going to agree with me; you win some, you lose some. But, if you don't think that "Dirty Dancing" is the best movie in the history of history, I want you to know that you are 100%, without-a-doubt, indisputably WRONG.
All you need to do is watch the film for my point to be proven, but, I've written a list for you anyways, just for those who need things to be spelled out.
1. Patrick Swayze
The depth and vulnerability Patrick Swayze brings to Johnny, while maintaining his Bad Boy Attitude, is simply an amazing feat. Not to mention that you're lying to yourself if Patrick Swayze isn't one of the most beautiful people you've ever seen.
2. Jennifer Grey
Jennifer Grey just encaptures Baby's naivety so perfectly and does a fantastic portrayal of a teen coming into adulthood without trivializing her feelings and journey to maturity. It's a huge plus that she makes Baby relatable AF, too (AKA I have reenacted every bridge scene numerous times, intentionally and unintentionally).
3. Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey TOGETHER
Separately, they're amazing. But together? A MASTERPIECE. The chemistry is unreal, people. Find me a better couple, I'll wait.
4. It addresses important issues
Classism. Sexism. Ageism. Slut shaming. What it means to parent. All these things and more are explored in an hour and fifty-five minutes. It's rare to find a film with so many positive messages packed in that still carries a fantastic story with well-rounded characters. Take that, James Cameron (Titanic can shove it).
5. "I carried a watermelon"
Never before in my life have I related so strongly to a character.
6. Baby's compassion
She wants to go into the Peace Corps, for God's sake. It's so refreshing to see a young female not only have goals but who is intelligent and compassionate simply to be compassionate. Baby needs no tragic backstory nor is she superficial; she's exactly the kind of female representation we need more of.
7. Lisa's performance(s)
Lisa is that character we love to hate, but still crack up at her ridiculousness.
8. The water scene
Ignoring how gorgeous Patrick Swayze looks shirtless and soaked, the bonding and chemistry seen here is endearing. Also, I think we all want to be Baby in this moment.
9. BABY'S OUTFITS
I AM TELLING YOU: OG FASHION ICON. Can someone tell me where can I pick up that crop top and tights combo?
10. "But most of all I' scared afraid of walking out of this room and and never feeling, the rest of my whole life, the way I feel when I'm with you"
Did you hear that? That was my heart BURSTING from the sheer emotion in this scene. Never have I never rooted for a romance more.
11. When Johnny gives Robbie the beatdown he deserves
Repeat after me: LEGENDARY. Robbie was the ultimate pompous jerk, and seeing him get his comeuppance revived my soul.
12. "You let me down, too"
So. Many. Tears. From. My. Eyeballs. I can't even begin to describe how much I adore and appreciate this scene and the dynamic between Baby and her father. I get chills every time.
13. The crawly dance scene
I'm not gonna lie and pretend that I don't know every line to this scene...It's THAT iconic. Also, there's the fact that Jennifer Grey is the only human to EVER make Bermuda-length shorts look good.
14. "The Time of My Life"
If you don't know this song, click out of this article RIGHT NOW AND WATCH THIS MOVIE. And if you do know this song, I don't even have to bother explaining its greatness because you already know.
15. THE LIFT
It would be physically impossible for me to recall how many times I've dreamt of doing this (let's be honest, we both know you have, too). The pure satisfaction when they finally stick it is fantastic as well.
16. Johnny's final speech
HE JUST LOVES BABY SO MUCH AND THEY MAKE EACH OTHER BRAVER AND BETTER AND HONESTLY WHERE CAN I FIND MY JOHNNY CASTLE BECAUSE I NEED HIM RIGHT NOW. Other relationship goals just cannot relate, sorry!
17. "Nobody puts Baby in the corner"
And at that moment, all the corners in the world were quaking in their boots. It just does not get better than this, folks.
