It’s been 27 years since the original FOOTLOOSE stole the hearts of an entire generation. With the help of shows like SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE and DANCING WITH THE STARS, has made a significant comeback, so it’s only fitting that they release a FOOTLOOSE remake.
FOOTLOOSE tells the story of Ren McCormack (Kenny Wormald), a big city kid who’s forced to move to a small town in Georgia to live with an uncle. Being the “big city” kid in town, he’s baffled to learn that the town has banned public dancing, loud music, or any other generic “rowdy teen” activities. The ban is an over-reaction to a group of teens who died in a car accident after a dance three years prior to Ren’s arrival. Naturally, being the big city kid, Ren finds the ban preposterous, being a former gymnast and dancing enthusiast and all. Be starts to but heads with the town preacher, Reverend Shaw Moore (Dennis Quaid), who also happens to be the father of the girl he falls in love with, Ariel (Julianne Hough).
Sure, the idea that dancing could be illegal seemed silly and dated in the 80’s… so of course, a modern-day “no dance ban” feels even more preposterous. But, what it lacks in sense, it makes up for in heart. While remakes tend to just butcher classics, this humble, small town story stays true to the original. We assume Kevin Bacon is proud.
But don’t take our word for it, compare the trailers back to back and see what you think!