Dirty Dancing MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: -2

In this 10th anniversary re-release of Dirty Dancing, nothing has changed except the music, which has been upgraded to digital quality. It's the summer of 1963 and Frances "Baby" Houseman (Jennifer Grey) is taking a last vacation with her family before joining the President's new Peace Corps. They travel to Kellerman's Mountain resort in the Catskills. One night she follows a friend on the staff to a party where everyone is "dirty dancing" to the sounds of Rhythm & Blues. Baby meets Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze), the resort dancing instructor, who begins to teach her some dance moves. Johnny's partner, pregnant by another staffer, plans an abortion on the same night as a dance show. Baby takes her place after being taught the steps. But Baby wants more than just a dance with Johnny. Older teens will enjoy the story while adults will appreciate the nostalgic soundtrack. This classic won't make as big a splash as it did ten years ago, but the romance and dancing that made it so popular ten years ago remain fresh and exciting.

The dancing is, indeed, "dirty" as the movements frequently simulate sexual interaction. Sex is also implied several times by couples in bed. Baby's sister has her mind made up to "go all the way" with a college staffer, but walks in on him when he's with another woman. Although no nudity is shown, near nudity and implied nudity is frequent as girls are shown in bras, dance tights or wrapped in sheets. In one scene, Johnny is teaching Baby a move in the water and her wet t-shirt becomes rather revealing. Adultery is implied in comments about other guests getting lessons from Johnny. Baby has a good relationship with her father and doesn't hesitate to ask him for money but won't say why. He shows his trust and gives it. But the money pays for an abortion for Johnny's partner which is nearly fatal for her. Baby again goes to her doctor father for help. When Johnny is accused of a crime, Baby sacrifices her reputation and relationship with her father to tell the truth about being with Johnny. After he finds Johnny was not responsible for the pregnancy, Dr. Houseman (Jerry Orbach) apologizes to Johnny for accusing him. Although the moral lessons may be good, they are lost in the immoral actions of the characters. Although DANCING may be considered tame by today's standards, it's much too DIRTY for a recommendation.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: Live Entertainment