10 Reasons Why ‘Dirty Dancing’ Will Never Be Put In A Corner

By Sarah Curran. 17 Feb 2022 6:46 PM

Thirty-five years on from its original release, fans are still having the “time of their lives” watching “Dirty Dancing”. A new celebrity dance competition called “The Real Dirty Dancing” proves the enduring popularity of the 1987 flick starring Jennifer Grey and Patrick Swayze.

In celebration of the big anniversary, ET Canada takes a look at all of the reasons why “Dirty Dancing” will forever be an all-time classic.

Photo: CP/Vestron Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

Photo: CP/Vestron/courtesy Everett Collection

Photo: CP/Vestron Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

Photo: Getty Images

Photo: Getty Images

Photo: Getty/John Barr/Liaison

Photo: Dave M. Benett/Getty Images

Photo: Tommaso Boddi/WireImage

Photo: Vinnie Zuffante/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

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1. The Chemistry
Photo: CP/Vestron Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection
Although it's true that Jennifer Grey and Patrick Swayze didn't always get along during filming, their undeniable chemistry in every single scene is a big part of why the movie became such a beloved classic.
2. The Moves
Photo: CP/Vestron Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection
Who hasn't tried to recreate the iconic "Dirty Dancing" lift at some point in in their life?

The film is responsible for some of the most memorable dance sequences in Hollywood history.
3. The Setting
Photo: CP/Vestron/courtesy Everett Collection
While the movie is set in the Catskills, filming actually took place in the stunning surrounds of Lake Lure, North Carolina, and Mountain Lake, Virginia, - better known as Kellerman’s Mountain House, where viewers were instantly transported back in time to the summer of 1963.
4. The Sex-Appeal
Photo: CP/Vestron Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection
"Dirty Dancing" remains one of the sexiest films of all time, thanks to its many, many swoon-worthy scenes.

A particular mention goes out to the moment that Johnny grazes Baby's frame as "Hungry Eyes" is playing.
5. Bye Bye Baby
Photo: Getty Images
It's important to remember that "Dirty Dancing" is also a coming-of-age film.

Baby undergoes a complete transformation from a naive teenager to a mature woman by the movie's final scenes.
6. The Wardrobe
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"Dirty Dancing"'s unforgettable fashion has served as style inspiration since its original release.

Crop tops, backless dresses, denim shorts and leotards are just some of the staples that made the movie's wardrobe so timeless.
7. The Soundtrack
Photo: Getty/John Barr/Liaison
Songwriters Franke Previte, John DeNicola and Donald Markowitz picked up a Best Song Oscar at the 1988 Academy Awards, thanks to penning "Time of My Life", which was just one of the incredible songs on the movie's soundtrack.
8. The Legacy
Photo: Dave M. Benett/Getty Images
"Dirty Dancing" has been turned into a hit stage musical, which has had runs on both Broadway and the West End.

A prequel called “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights” hit screens in 2004, while the original was remade as a TV movie in 2017.
9. The Choreography
Photo: Tommaso Boddi/WireImage
"Dirty Dancing" just would not have been the same without Kenny Ortega's influence on the film.

The legendary choreographer combined Street salsa, Colombian style salsa, Cuban rhythm step, R&B and street soul to give the film's dance moves their distinctive flair.
10. The Hearthrob
Photo: Vinnie Zuffante/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
There's no denying that Patrick Swayze was truly the heart and soul of "Dirty Dancing". The late actor's memory will live on forever through his inspiring portrayal of dance instructor Johnny Castle.

Swayze also features on the movie's soundtrack with his hit song, "She's Like The Wind".

10 Reasons Why ‘Dirty Dancing’ Will Never Be Put In A Corner

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