Stepping Out

This film was panned. It was panned by the writer of the stage play, Richard Harris, who hated the savage re-write of his work. It was panned by some of the actors, who didn't want to be associated with a critical flop. And it's been panned here too. So, it's no good then? Wrong!! I saw this film when it first opened. I, along with the entire audience, laughed so hard I got stomach cramps. I returned to the cinema three times more to get another dose of fun and pathos. The cinema was crowded out every time. This film has incredible humour and penetrating drama; some parts are creepy - especially Patrick (Mavis's partner) and Andy's hubby - really nasty. The actors, especially Julie Walters, Shelley Winters and Bill Irwin, are superb. Liza Minellis, despite fluffing a couple of lines, is terrific. The entire cast is wonderful; ordinary and yet extraordinary in their portrayals of unrealistic expectations, frustrated dreams and dull, mundane lives transformed by a weekly dance class. If you get the chance to see it, do so. If you don't get the chance, you've missed out. Get the film from somewhere, somehow and enjoy!! Oh, and as a PS, ignore the professional critics.....