Musical Chairs (2012)

The film makes a home in your brain and the only cure is to see it again.

It’s not bad or unwatchable but despite the amplitude of the spectacle, the end result is underwhelming.

The joyful confection is coated in a sparkly gloss, bright enough to gleam from the darkest, most cynical corners.

The movie turns out to be a little better than the average. Starting from a romantic formula often seen in the cinema, it ends in the most predictable (and somewhat bland) way.

I've been a fan of dance for my entire life. From as long as I can remember, I've taught myself to dance by watching old VHS tapes of Michael Jackson, movies that starred Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly, and concerts of Motown legends that showcased a lot of dance numbers. Later in life, I even took some classes to learn how to move better. Needless to say, movies that involve dancing make me happy. I'll rephrase that. Movies with a great plot, solid acting, and great direction that involve the art of dance make me happy. I will leave the 'Step Up' films on the side of the road any day.However, with this film by Susan Seidelman called 'Musical Chairs', this is one dance movie that you can add to one of your favorites, despite some of its clichés. Seidelman has rounded out her movie with an amazing cast and a good script that tells the story of love, tragedy, and dance, all from a beautiful perspective. Unfortunately, 'Musical Chairs' only came out in a few theaters across the U.S. during a weekend when a big blockbuster movie came out. Almost no critics or the viewing public saw this movie and thus, it was swept under the rug very quickly. Luckily for us, HBO is giving it a run on their cable network to give this great film its deserved spotlight.The film is set in New York and follows Armando (E.J. Bonilla), who is a man who has a passion for dance and wants desperately to do stage work, but can only find custodial work at a local dance studio to make ends meet and possibly get his foot in the door. While working there, he takes notice of the beautiful Mia Franklin (Leah Pipes), the star ballroom dancer who is secretly having an affair with with studio owner Daniel (Philip Willingham). Mia catches Armando dancing by himself one day and sees that he is actually quite good and gives him a few lessons.One day, Mia leaves the studio and ends up getting hit by a taxi, which leaves her a permanent paraplegic. Being madly in love with Mia, Armando persuades her and a few other people in the therapy hospital to join and compete in a wheelchair ballroom dancing competition. I know, this has Oscar written all over it, right? As Armando and Mia are falling love with each other, Armando's mother would rather see her son with another beautiful girl without a severe handicap, and she goes to great lengths to sabotage their relationship. Sometimes to comical outcomes.Through a lot of struggles, training, and dancing, Mia and Armando work towards winning that dance competition, but in fact, they might have already won, as they have found in each other their soul mate. I know it seems like there is a heavy layer of cheese throughout, but Seidelman's direction and Marty Madden's script hits the right steps every inch of the way, despite some of the clichés and story arcs you've seen in these types of romantic films before. Bonilla and Pipes give great performances and their chemistry on screen is infectious. 'Musical Chairs' is a very rewarding movie.

I fully enjoyed this movie. It is especially uplifting during the holidays which can be a rough emotional time for many. This story gives us some perspective on how hard life can be for many. Although this beautiful love story encounters elements of tragedy, the plot is realistic with a current NYC feel. The actors face adversity and push on as it leaves you with a positive feeling and helps you to remember that in life, as Armando's father says "when you are old...its the struggles you miss the most". I always enjoyed watching dance movies. I have two left feet and perhaps can aspire to live vicariously through others that dance well. I promise you will enjoy your two hour investment of time. There is a little something in this movie for everyone. The cinematography was great and music stimulating. The storyline and plot was constantly moving and I was left wanting more. Great performances by the actors especially a personal favorite of mine, Laverne Cox.

Wonderfully funny, sad, charming, fresh story from a subject that could be maudlin. The writing and direction pack a wallop, the acting is superb--it's so natural that you might think you were eavesdropping on the family's life.Sit back and enjoy every minute and every character. Mama lovingly tries to run a family that is way beyond her power. Her antics with a spray bottle of potion add a terrific touch to the story. The music will have you bouncing in your seat.The two stars should not remain unknown for long--they are completely captivating. Two faces that you never get tired of looking at and which deliver believable emotions.The comic touches are frequent and laugh-out-loud funny and never in poor taste. Bravo to the actors, dancers, writer and director.

A sweet and fun story, and a great performance by EJ Bonilla.Susan Seidelman delivers a heartwarming and beautiful love story full of energy, emotion and uplifting moments. Leah Pipes and EJ Bonilla have great chemistry and look like they're on their way to be stars.The dancing is well choreographed and the music is upbeat and exciting. Seidelman does a good job of balancing the sadness of the tragedy with inspiring scenes and a moving ending. The film has and amazing spirit and leaves you feeling happy and upbeat.I would recommend this film to everyone. It's a sweet love story and gives the audience a beautiful look into an unusual world of dance.