A Deep Dive into Footloose: From Bacon's Moves to Marietta's Grooves
Hold onto your hats. We are about to dive deep into "Footloose." Both the 1984 classic and its 2011 remake are on the table. Prepare for a foot-tapping journey through small-town bans and impressive dance moves. Kick off your Sunday shoes and let's go.
The Heartbeat of Footloose: Plot and Prohibition
Both versions of "Footloose" have a simple premise: a city boy shakes up a small town by challenging a ban on dancing. In 1984, Ren McCormack, played by Kevin Bacon, moves from Chicago to a sleepy town. Dancing is not just out of style; it is illegal.
Why the ban, you ask? It is not a whimsical quirk. Rusty and her friends, Wendy Jo and Urleen, explain to Ren. The prohibition comes from a tragic car accident. Four young lives were lost after leaving a dance. One of them was Reverend Moore's son. The Reverend, in grief, pushed through a law that outlawed dancing. Heavy backstory indeed.
Meet the Movers and Shakers: Casting the Footloose Crew
Now, let’s talk about the cast of "Footloose." The role of Ren McCormack is central. He is the beacon of rebellion in a town set in its ways.
Ren McCormack: From Bacon to Wormald
In 1984, Kevin Bacon owned the role with energy and talent. Fun fact: Bacon was 24 playing a teenager. He reportedly did most of his own dancing. Rumor has it Bacon went undercover as a high school student to experience teen life. That is dedication!
For the 2011 remake, Kenny Wormald took on Ren’s role. He was 27, a bit older than Bacon. Zac Efron was initially considered for the role. Even Tom Cruise and Rob Lowe were in the running back then. Imagine Tom Cruise cutting loose to "Footloose!"
Ariel Moore: Rebellious Spirit
Ariel Moore, the preacher's daughter, is another key character. Julianne Hough played her in the remake, beating out names like Hayden Panettiere and Miley Cyrus. Hough gave Ariel depth. She showed weariness and rebellious despair. Lori Singer played Ariel's angst in the original.
Willard Hewitt: The Dance-Challenged Sidekick
Every hero needs a sidekick. For Ren, it is Willard Hewitt, the lovable friend who struggles to dance. Chris Penn played Willard in 1984. Those scenes of Willard dancing were written in because Chris Penn really couldn't dance! Miles Teller played Willard in 2011, bringing his own charm.
Reverend Shaw Moore: The Man with the Ban
Dennis Quaid took on Reverend Shaw Moore in the 2011 film. He wrestles with grief while enforcing the dance ban. This character embodies the town's conflict, torn between tradition and youth.
Rusty and Chuck Cranston: Friends and Foes
Let’s not forget Ariel's best friend, Rusty. In the original, Sarah Jessica Parker played her. At just 18, Parker brought energy to Rusty. Chuck Cranston is Ariel's boyfriend, a local bad boy, adding tension to the story. Casting described Chuck as male, aged 18-25, hinting at youthful drama.
Behind the Scenes: Actors' Tales and Transformations
Ever wonder what actors do to prepare? For "Footloose," there are fun stories.
Kevin Bacon: Undercover Teen and Dancing King
We mentioned Bacon's undercover work. Imagine him showing up at your school! He impressed with his dancing, making Ren's moves believable.
Julianne Hough: More Than Just Moves
Julianne Hough brought more than just dance to Ariel. Her portrayal hinted at deeper emotional complexity. She gave Ariel a world-weary edge.
Kenny Wormald: Stepping into Big Shoes
Kenny Wormald had the tough job of recreating an iconic role. He brought dance skills but no romance with Hough. They were just co-stars.
Sarah Jessica Parker & Chris Penn: Youthful Starts and Dance Struggles
Parker's role as Rusty offers a fun glimpse into her beginnings. Chris Penn's dance struggles became a relatable trait for Willard, adding authenticity.
Location, Location, Location: From Utah to Georgia
Where were these towns filmed? For the 1984 film, Utah's landscapes served as the backdrop. Towns like Payson and Provo created a small-town feel. Some locations changed over time. The bar in the movie was demolished for the Utah Valley Convention Center.
In 2011, "Footloose" moved to Georgia. R.L. Osborne High School in Marietta became a key filming spot along with Atlanta. This change gave the remake a different Southern flavor.
Musical Notes: Footloose Soundtracks
Music is the soul of "Footloose." The original soundtrack is legendary, but the 2011 remake added its spin. Blake Shelton covered the theme song with a country flair. Music remains the driving force against the rules.
1984 vs 2011: A Dance-Off of Eras?
When comparing both "Footloose" films, opinions vary. One common sentiment? "The dancing is better in the remake." The original has nostalgic charm, but the remake upped choreography and dance sequences. Nostalgia is strong, and many favor the energy of the original and Bacon's iconic moves.
Loose Ends and Fun Facts
Before we finish our "Footloose" dive, here are fun tidbits. Spoiler alert: Ren and Ariel eventually kiss—a symbol of their connection. Also, Rusty and Willard share a sweet, awkward kiss. In "Footloose," love and dance go hand in hand, even if it takes rule-breaking to get there.
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