Film & TV

Adelaide Film Festival Review: I Want to Dance Better at Parties

This short film is a life-affirming tale about moving on and finding new purpose after a newly widowed father enrols in Latin dance classes.

 

iwanttodancebetteratpartiesI Want to Dance Better at Parties charts the story of Phillip (Stevie Rodgers). A newly widowed single father, he still grieves for his wife’s recent passing. Attempting to recover, he enrols himself in a Latin dance class. Learning the moves with instructor Melissa (Elizabeth Nabben), Phillip slowly emerges from his self-imposed shell. Aiming to let go of the past and be free of isolation, the days following would soften the burden of grief constantly weighing him down.

This short film from directors Gideon Obarzanek and Matthew Bate is an arresting piece. Phillip’s sadness at such a great loss is one most would have felt. The spectre of his wife’s demise has had the effect of restraining his future. That he attempts to break free of eternal sorrow for the sake of his children speaks volumes of his strength. His timidity in coming out from the emotional shadows is completely understandable and one effectively conveyed.

Far from being a depressing movie, the film-makers ensure it ultimately becomes uplifting. It’s a life-affirming tale about moving on and finding new purpose. It doesn’t sugar coat anything and doesn’t neatly wrap events up – much like real life. The performers bring genuine authenticity making you understand their actions. Their dancing is delightful to watch with the various moves becoming a form of expressing their buried feelings.

I Want to Dance Better at Parties is a strong film full of charm and pathos. Its little lessons in dealing with grief and re-engaging in life are well handled in a thoughtful and amusing manner.

Reviewed by Patrick Moore

Rating out of 10: 7

 

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