The first half of this documentary is charming and interesting as it focuses on adolescents learning new skills, both on the dance floor and in life. But then it shifts to the coaches, teachers, etc., and becomes just another ballroom dance competition -- I expected commentary from Juiet Prowse to begin any minute. Hang around for the first couple of reels, then when they start picking and choosing for the competition teams, walk out and go dancing yourself somewhere. I don't know why the producer/director felt that empty platitudes from the adults ("little Johny used to be a trouble-maker, but now that he dances he's just so docile and amenable") were more interesting than the fresh, funny, slightly skewed world view that the kids so freely expressed. On a more technical note, the camera and operator become clearly intrusive during the final competition.
Review of Mad Hot Ballroom
