Movies like Dirty Dancing are timeless classics that have captured the hearts and imaginations of people everywhere.
From the iconic soundtrack to the passionate dance moves, Dirty Dancing is a cultural phenomenon that has stood the test of time.
Part of the movie’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless story of teenage rebellion, forbidden love, and passionate dance moves.
The movie follows teenager Frances “Baby” Houseman as she embarks on a summer vacation with her family to a resort in the Catskills.
Dirty Dancing has a deep and lasting cultural impact and is an essential movie for any fan of dance and romance.
The music, choreography, and performances are all unforgettable, and the movie is a classic of its time.
The following are the recommended movies like dirty dancing.
1. Flashdance (1983)
- Director: Adrian Lyne
- Cast: Jennifer Beal, OwensMichael Nouri, Lilia Skala, Heffner, ConwellLee Montgomery, Karabatsos, and Cynthia Rhodes
- IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
“Flashdance” is a musical romantic drama film released in 1983.
Alex Owens is a welder by day and an exotic dancer by night who dreams of becoming a professional dancer.
Alex falls in love with her boss, Nick Hurley, who helps her pursue her dream.
“Flashdance” has since been regarded as a classic of the dance film genre and referenced in numerous films, television shows, and other media.
Its impact on popular culture and its enduring popularity have solidified its place in film history as a beloved classic.
2. Stomp the Yard (2007)
- Director: Sylvain White
- Cast: Columbus Short, Meagan Good, Darrin Henson, Laz Alonso, Brian J. White, Valarie Pettiford, Albert Jones, DJ Qualls, and Faizon Love.
- IMDb Rating: 5.7/10
“Stomp the Yard” is a 2007 dance drama film that follows the story of a young street dancer named DJ.
After his younger brother’s death, Dj enrolls in a historically black college called Truth University to escape his troubled past and start a new life.
At the university, DJ is introduced to the world of step dancing, a style of dance that originated in African-American fraternities and sororities.
Stomp the Yard is one of the best movies like dirty dancing.
DJ soon becomes interested in joining a step dance team, but struggles to fit in with the other students and adjust to the strict rules and regulations of the university. Despite these obstacles.
“The film was praised for its dynamic dance sequences, high-energy music, and its positive message about the importance of education and perseverance.
The film also introduced many people to the world of step dancing, and helped to popularize the dance style.
“Stomp the Yard” is considered one of the best dance movies of the 2000s and remains a fan favorite.
3. Honey (2003)
- Director: Bille Woodruff
- Cast: Jessica Alba, DanielsMekhi Phifer, BennyLil’ Romeo, MichaelJoy Bryant, GinaDavid Moscow, and ChadLonette McKee.
- IMDb Rating: 4.1/10
“Honey” is a 2003 film about Honey Daniels, a young, ambitious dancer and choreographer.
The film follows Honey as she rises to fame in the music video industry while navigating the ups and downs of her personal life.
Honey is determined to make it as a music video choreographer, and her passion and talent catch the attention of a hotshot music video director..
Honey’s personal life is also in turmoil as she struggles to balance her career, family, and love.
She is torn between her boyfriend, Benny, and her new love interest, Michael, a musician.
As Honey becomes more successful, she finds herself caught in a love triangle and must decide who she wants to be with.
Honey is one of the best movies like Dirty Dancing .
4. Save the last dance (2001)
- Director: Thomas Carter
- Cast: Julia Stiles, Sean Patrick Thomas, Kerry Washington, Fredro Starr, Terry Kinney, Vincent Laresca, Garland Whitt, and Bianca Lawson.
- IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
“Save the Last Dance” is a 2001 romantic dance film directed by Thomas Carter.
The movie stars Julia Stiles as Sara Johnson, a talented ballet dancer who dreams of attending Juilliard School in New York City.
When her mother dies in a car accident, she moves to the South Side of Chicago to live with her father.
There, she transfers to an inner-city high school, where she is the only white student.
She soon meets Derek Reynolds (Sean Patrick Thomas), a talented black student who teaches hip-hop dance and helps her adjust to her new environment.
Due to cultural differences, Sara and Derek’s relationship is initially fraught with tension.
However they eventually fall in love and develop a strong connection through their shared love of dance.
The film explores race, class, and identity themes as Sara struggles to balance her passion for dance.
However, with the challenges of adapting to a new environment. Save the last dance is one of the best movies like dirty dancing.
5. Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (2004)
- Director: Guy Ferland
- Cast: Romola Garai, Diego Luna,Sela Ward, John Slattery, Jonathan Jackson, Makenzie Vega,and Thomas Kretschmann.
- IMDb Rating: 5.7/10
“Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights” is a 2004 romantic dance film directed by Guy Ferland.
The film follows the story of Katey Miller, a young American girl who is sent to Havana with her parents for a year.
She falls in love with Javier Suarez, a Cuban dancer who works at the hotel where she’s staying.
Despite their different backgrounds, they are drawn to each other through their love of dance.
Katey transforms from a sheltered, privileged girl into a confident young woman who finds herself and her place in the world through her relationship.
However, with Javier and their shared love of dance. The film touches on themes of class and cultural differences.
But ultimately celebrates the power of love and the transformative nature of art.
Dirty Dancing Havana night is one of the best movies like dirty dancing. A very touching story, it’s a movie that will leave viewers feeling inspired and uplifted.
6. Footloose (2011)
- Director: Craig Brewer
- Cast: Julianne Hough,Dennis Quaid, Kenny Wormald, Andie MacDowell, Miles Teller, and Ray McKinnon.
- IMDb Rating:6.5/10
“Footloose” is a 2011 American musical drama film that tells the story of Ren McCormack. A city boy who moves to a small town where dancing and rock music have been banned.
The town is ruled by Reverend Shaw Moore, who has imposed strict laws against dancing and music, much to the frustration of the local youth.
Ren is determined to bring back dancing and music to the town and teams up with Ariel. The rebellious daughter of Reverend Moore to achieve this goal.
However, with its catchy tunes, spectacular dance sequences, and powerful message. Footloose is one of the best movies like dirty dancing.
It is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who watch it.
7. Strictly Ballroom (1992)
- Director: Baz Luhrmann.
- Cast: Paul Mercurio, Tara Morice, Bill Hunter, Pat Thomson, Gia Carides, and Barry Otto.
- IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
“Strictly Ballroom” is a 1992 Australian romantic comedy-drama film that tells the story of Scott Hastings.
A talented ballroom dancer who rebels against the strict rules of the ballroom dancing world to follow his dance style.
The film is a charming and inspiring story about following one’s dreams and defying conventions.
Scott’s determination to dance his way, despite the pressure from his family.
“Strictly Ballroom” features a lively soundtrack, spectacular dance sequences, and a talented cast.
It helps to bring the story to life and the film’s central themes of love, individuality, and the pursuit of happiness.
Overall, “Strictly Ballroom” is a feel-good film that will leave a lasting impression on all who watch it.
With its charming characters, upbeat soundtrack, and inspiring message.
8. Step up (2006)
- Director: Anne Fletcher
- Cast: Channing Tatum, Jenna Dewan, Damaine Radcliff, De’Shawn Washington, Mario, and Drew Sidora.
- IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
“Step Up” is a 2006 American romantic dance film that follows the story of Tyler Gage. A rebellious street dancer from Baltimore who is allowed to avoid jail time.
However, I must complete community service at the Maryland School of the Arts.
Tyler meets Nora Clark, a talented contemporary dancer, and the two form a connection through their love of dance.
It showcases various street dance styles, including hip-hop, breaking, and popping.
The electrifying dance numbers are performed by talented dancers who bring energy and passion to the film.
However, it is an inspiring film, and the love story between Tyler and Nora adds an emotional layer to the film.
Step Up is one of the best movies like Dirty Dancing.
9. La La Land (2016)
- Director: Damien Chazelle
- Cast: Ryan Gosling, WilderEmma Stone, John Legend, Rosemarie DeWitt, WilderJ.K. Simmons, Finn Wittrock, and Tracy Sonya Mizuno.
- IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
“La La Land” is a 2016 American romantic musical film. The film stars Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone as a jazz pianist and an aspiring actress.
Respectively who fall in love while pursuing their dreams in Los Angeles.
Despite that, its iconic landmarks, such as the Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Hills.
The musical numbers highlight the film, with catchy songs like “City of Stars” and “Someone in the Crowd.
The chemistry between Gosling and Stone is palpable, and their performances are charming and memorable. La La Land is one of the best movies like Dirty Dancing.
Overall, “La La Land” is a charming and magical film that pays homage to the classic Hollywood musicals while being fresh and modern.
If you’re a fan of musicals, romance, or great filmmaking, “La La Land” is a must-watch.
10. Can’t buy me love (1987)
- Director: Steve Rash
- Cast: Patrick Dempse, Amanda Peterson, Courtney Gains, Tina Caspary, Shelley Fabares, Sandy Baron, and Cindy Williams.
- IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
“Can’t Buy Me Love” is a 1987 American romantic comedy. A high school geek who dreams of being popular.
Nevertheless, in an attempt to boost his social status. However he makes a deal with the most popular girl in school.
Cynthia “Cindy” Mancini, to pretend to be his girlfriend in exchange for money.
As they spend more time together, Ronald and Cindy realize they might have deeper feelings for each other.
Meanwhile, Ronald’s newfound popularity starts to go to his head.
Overall, “Can’t Buy Me Love” is a fun and nostalgic film that still resonates with audiences today and is a must-see for fans of romantic comedies.
Can’t Buy Me Love is one of the best movies like dirty dancing.
11. Shall We Dance (2004)
- Director: Peter Chelsom
- Cast: Richard Gere, Jennifer Lopez, Susan Sarandon, Lisa Ann Walter, Bobby Cannavale, Richard Jenkins, and Stanley Tucci.
- IMDb Rating: 6.5/10
“Shall We Dance” is a 2004 American romantic comedy-drama film about a successful but unhappy lawyer named John Clark.
John feels unfulfilled in his life and work, so he takes ballroom dance lessons. On the other hand, as a way to try something new and find joy in his life again.
At the dance studio, he meets a beautiful instructor named Paulina and falls in love with her.
Along the way, John discovers a new community of friends and a renewed sense of purpose through dance.
Overall, “Shall We Dance” is a charming and uplifting movie that will leave you feeling inspired and entertained.
Shall We Dance is one of the best movies like dirty dancing.
12. Take the Lead (2006)
- Director: Liz Friedlander
- Cast: Antonio Banderas, Alfre Woodard, Rob Brown, Dante Basco, Yaya DaCosta, and Marcus T. Paulk.
- IMDb Rating: 6.3/10
“Take the Lead” is a film that tells the story of ballroom dance teacher Pierre Dulaine.
The film is set in New York City and is based on a true story about Dulaine’s efforts to offer ballroom dance classes to students at a high school.
The students in the class come from diverse backgrounds and have different interests and personalities. However Dulaine can bring them together through the power of dance.
Dulaine is initially met with resistance by the students and the school administration.
But he persists in his mission to show the students the positive impact of dance on their lives.
“Take the Lead” is a feel-good film that celebrates the power of dance and is one of the best movies like Dirty Dancing.
“Take the Lead” is a movie that will leave audiences feeling entertained and inspired.
13. Saturday Night Fever (1977)
- Director: John Badham
- Cast: John Travolta, Joseph Cali, Karen Lynn Gorney, Paul Pape, Sam Coppola, and Denny Dillon.
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Saturday Night Fever this film follows the story of Tony Manero, a young man from Brooklyn.
Who escapes from the monotony of his everyday life through his love of dancing at the local disco.
The film also explores themes of adolescence, growing up, and finding one’s place in the world.
However, as well as the impact of cultural and societal norms on individual lives.
However, its impact on popular culture is undeniable, and it remains one of the most memorable and beloved musicals of its era.
Saturday Night Fever is a classic movie that continues entertaining audiences with its electrifying music, dynamic dance scenes, and timeless themes.
14. Fame (1980)
- Director: Alan Parker
- Cast: Irene Cara, Eddie Barth, Laura Dean, Paul McCrane, Lee Chamberlin, and Gene Anthony Ray.
- IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
“Fame” this film follows the lives of several students at the High School of Performing Arts in New York City.
However as they strive to achieve their dreams of stardom in the performing arts.
“Fame” explores themes of ambition, friendship, and the sacrifices required to succeed.
The film showcases a range of musical styles, from jazz to classical, and features electrifying dance sequences that have become iconic.
“Fame” is a testament to the power of art and the human spirit to overcome adversity and achieve greatness. Fame is one of the best movies like dirty dancing .
15. Breakin (1984)
- Director: Joel Silberg
- Cast: Lucinda Dickey, Adolfo Quinones, Michael Chambers, Susie Bono, and Luke La Fontaine.
- IMDb Rating: 4.0/10
Breakin is a seminal film that helped to popularize breakdancing and bring it into the mainstream.
The film features several breakdancing routines performed by the lead actors.
However, it is set to a soundtrack that includes popular songs from the early 1980s.
The breakdancing scenes are energetic and showcase the athletic and acrobatic skills of the performers.
The film helped to introduce breakdancing to a wider audience and inspired many young people to take up the dance style.
Overall, Breakin is a classic of the breakdancing genre and remains a beloved film for many people who grew up in the 1980s.
16. Black Swan (2010)
- Director: Darren Aronofsky
- Cast: Natalie Portman, Vincent Cassel, Mila Kunis, Barbara Hershey, and Winona Ryder.
- IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Black Swan dives into the psychological depths of the human mind. Exploring themes of perfection, identity, and reality.
Black Swan examines great lengths through the lens of a ballerina’s journey.
The main character, Nina, is a ballet dancer who has been in the New York City ballet for four years.
She has been searching for the coveted lead role in a performance of Swan Lake, which would define her career.
However, her director insists that she must embody both the roles of the Black Swan and the White Swan to succeed.
Nina’s journey to reach perfection is a difficult one. She is pushed to her physical and mental limits as she struggles to portray both the soft elegance of the white swan, and the dark, seductive power of the black swan.
Black Swan is an intense psychological thriller that questions our perception of reality and what it means to be perfect.
17. Silver linings playbook (2012)
- Director: David O. Russell
- Cast: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro, Jacki Weaver, and Chris Tucker.
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Silver Linings Playbook tells the story of Pat Solitano, a young man with bipolar disorder.
Who is released from a psychiatric hospital and moves back in with his parents.
The movie follows Pat as he struggles to adapt to life in the real world. However while trying to win back his estranged wife.
The story is funny and heartbreaking as it follows Pat’s recovery journey.
The film also looks at how Pat’s mental illness struggles have brought him closer to his family. Also have given him a newfound appreciation for life.
Silver Linings Playbook is unique in its exploration of mental illness. Also it’s a powerful and uplifting story about hope and resilience.
Overall, Silver Linings Playbook is a remarkable film that will touch viewers’ hearts. It’s an inspiring story of how there can still be hope even amid adversity.
18. White nights (1985)
- Director: Taylor Hackford
- Cast: Mikhail Baryshnikov, Gregory Hines, Isabella Rossellini, Jerzy Skolimowski, and Helen Mirren.
- IMDb Rating: 6.6/10
The “White Nights” is an iconic drama that follows the story of two characters.
Nikolai and Raymond on a journey of redemption and learning to appreciate the beauty of life.
Nikolai, a Russian ballet dancer, is sent to the United States as part of a prisoner exchange. While in the United States, he meets Raymond, a black tap dancer.
Who has spent his entire life in prison for a crime he may not have committed. Despite their differences in background and culture.
The two become friends and help each other through the ups and downs of life in a foreign country.
In the end, Nikolai and Raymond’s friendship is stronger than ever. They realize that they can help each other with their differences.
However, there is beauty in those differences. They see that they can still enjoy life, despite their struggles, and this realization brings them solace and peace.
