Shall We Dance? (2004) MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +3 1/2 Content: -1

In this remake of the 1997 Japanese film, estate lawyer John Clark (Richard Gere) is happily married to Bev (Susan Sarandon) but yearns for a change in his monotonous routine. On his evening train ride home from his Chicago office, he notices a lovely but sad, young woman (Jennifer Lopez) standing at the window of Miss Mitzis School of Dance. His curiosity leads him to sign up for a beginners ballroom dancing class, changing his life forever. Miss Mitzi (Anita Gillette) is a delightfully funny, middle-aged lady, and Paulina, the sad woman, is a professional ballroom dancer and instructor. John and his inept male classmates become close friends, but his biggest shock is discovering that Link Peterson (Stanley Tucci), a member of Johns law firm, is one of the star dancers hiding behind ridiculous outfits. John and his friends spring to new life as they waltz and tango their way into a championship competition.

In a refreshing twist, the handsome lawyer and the beautiful dance instructor dont end up in lust. John is attracted to Paulina, but she makes it clear that he should not return if he isnt there to learn to dance. Like his coworker Link, John is embarrassed about his dance classes, knowing it will be a source of ridicule by his family and friends. But he enjoys it so much, he cant stop. Bevs bewildered over his mysterious late nights and hires a detective. Links brazen dance partner says what she thinks, which is often crude, much like her low necklines and form-fitting clothes. Paulinas outfits also emphasize her voluptuous figure. Some unfortunate bad language does nothing to enhance the story, and the occurrence of an f-word is especially disappointing. Mitzi drinks liquor from a flask to deal with her slow-learning students. Because of some profanity, strong crude language and an f-word, Shall We Dance? rates a slightly unacceptable score.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: Miramax