Anjanette Prichard

Written by Anjanette Prichard

Modified & Updated: 08 Dec 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

30-facts-about-the-movie-footloose
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Footloose is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of audiences since its release in 1984. This iconic movie, directed by Herbert Ross, tells the story of Ren McCormack, a teenager who moves to a small town where dancing and rock music have been banned by a strict local minister.

Featuring a young Kevin Bacon in the lead role, Footloose combines drama, romance, and toe-tapping music in a way that has made it a beloved film for generations. But there’s much more to this movie than its catchy soundtrack and memorable dance scenes. In this article, we will delve into 30 fascinating facts about Footloose that will deepen your appreciation for this beloved cinematic gem.

Key Takeaways:

  • 1. Footloose, released in 1984, became a huge hit, inspiring a generation with its rebellious spirit, electrifying dance scenes, and iconic soundtrack, making it a timeless classic loved by all.
  • 2. The movie showcases the clash between tradition and youthful rebellion, promoting individuality and the power of music and dance as a means of self-expression, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Table of Contents

Footloose was released in 1984.

Footloose, directed by Herbert Ross, set movie theaters ablaze when it hit the big screens in 1984.

The movie stars Kevin Bacon as the protagonist, Ren McCormack.

With his energetic dancing and undeniable charisma, Kevin Bacon brought the character of Ren McCormack to life in Footloose.

The original screenplay was written by Dean Pitchford.

Dean Pitchford not only wrote the screenplay for Footloose, but he also wrote most of the songs for the film.

The movie tells the story of a city teenager who moves to a small town where dancing is banned.

Footloose follows the journey of Ren McCormack as he challenges the conservative rules of a small town where dancing is considered rebellious and immoral.

Footloose was a commercial success, grossing over $80 million at the box office.

The movie struck a chord with audiences and became a huge financial success, solidifying its place in pop culture history.

Kenny Loggins’ iconic song “Footloose” became a massive hit.

The theme song of the movie, “Footloose,” performed by Kenny Loggins, topped music charts and became synonymous with the film.

Footloose was remade in 2011 with Julianne Hough and Kenny Wormald.

A modern adaptation of the movie was released in 2011, introducing a new generation to the story of Footloose.

John Lithgow plays the role of Reverend Shaw Moore, who opposes dancing in the town.

John Lithgow delivers a powerful performance as Reverend Shaw Moore, the strict religious leader who forbids dancing in the town of Bomont.

Sarah Jessica Parker stars as Ariel Moore, the rebellious daughter of Reverend Shaw Moore.

Sarah Jessica Parker showcases her talent as Ariel Moore, the rebellious teenager who defies her father’s rules by falling in love with Ren.

The movie features electrifying dance sequences choreographed by Kenny Ortega.

Kenny Ortega’s dynamic choreography brought the dance scenes in Footloose to life, captivating audiences with energetic moves.

Footloose received two Academy Award nominations.

The movie was recognized for its achievements, receiving nominations for Best Original Song and Best Soundtrack at the Academy Awards.

Footloose was banned in some communities due to its rebellious themes.

The film’s depiction of teenage rebellion and challenging societal norms led to it being banned in certain conservative communities.

Chris Penn plays the role of Willard Hewitt, Ren’s best friend.

Chris Penn delivers a memorable performance as Willard Hewitt, Ren’s loyal friend who learns to dance and embrace his own freedom.

Footloose inspired a Broadway musical adaptation.

The success of the film led to a Broadway musical adaptation of Footloose, featuring the beloved songs from the movie.

The movie showcases the power of music and dance as a means of self-expression.

Footloose celebrates the transformative power of music and dance, highlighting their ability to break barriers and bring people together.

Footloose was praised for its soundtrack, which featured popular songs from the ’80s.

The film’s soundtrack became a cultural phenomenon, featuring hit songs like “Let’s Hear It for the Boy” and “Almost Paradise.”

Footloose has gained a cult following over the years.

The movie’s captivating storyline and memorable music have solidified its status as a cult classic, beloved by fans all around the world.

The success of Footloose sparked a wave of dance-themed movies in the ’80s.

Footloose’s impact on popular culture led to a trend of dance-themed movies in the 1980s, inspiring films like Dirty Dancing and Flashdance.

The soundtrack of Footloose sold over 9 million copies worldwide.

The popularity of the film’s soundtrack soared, with millions of copies sold globally, making it one of the best-selling movie soundtracks of all time.

Footloose showcases the clash between tradition and youthful rebellion.

The film explores the tension between the conservative views of the older generation and the desire for freedom and self-expression by the younger generation.

The iconic warehouse dance scene in Footloose has become legendary.

The energetic and exuberant dance sequence in the warehouse, featuring Kevin Bacon’s impressive moves, has become one of the most memorable moments in cinema history.

Footloose was inspired by real events.

The movie was loosely based on events in the town of Elmore City, Oklahoma, where dancing was banned until 1980.

Footloose was a breakthrough role for Kevin Bacon.

Footloose catapulted Kevin Bacon to stardom, establishing him as a leading actor in Hollywood.

Footloose promotes the importance of individuality and standing up for what you believe in.

The film encourages viewers to embrace their true selves and fight for their passions, even in the face of adversity.

Footloose remains an iconic ’80s film, capturing the spirit of the decade.

The film’s vibrant energy, memorable soundtrack, and themes of rebellion perfectly encapsulate the essence of the 1980s.

Footloose was a critical success, receiving positive reviews from film critics.

The movie was praised for its entertaining storyline, electrifying dance sequences, and standout performances by the cast.

Footloose paved the way for dance movies to become a popular genre.

The success of Footloose contributed to the popularity of dance movies, creating a niche genre that continues to captivate audiences today.

The line “Let’s dance!” became synonymous with Footloose.

The iconic line “Let’s dance!” uttered by Ren McCormack became a rallying cry for viewers, resonating with their desire to break free and express themselves.

Footloose inspired a generation of dancers and musicians.

The movie inspired countless individuals to pursue their passion for dance and music, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Footloose continues to captivate new audiences through its timeless story and infectious music.

Even decades after its release, Footloose remains a beloved film that continues to entertain and inspire viewers of all ages.

Conclusion

Footloose is a beloved movie that continues to captivate audiences with its energizing dance sequences and timeless story. With its iconic soundtrack and memorable performances, it has cemented its place in pop culture history. The film showcases the power of youth and the spirit of rebellion, making it a relatable and inspiring experience for viewers of all ages.Footloose is not just about dancing; it delves into deeper themes such as freedom, individuality, and the importance of challenging societal norms. It reminds us to question authority and embrace our own passions. Through the character of Ren McCormack, played by Kevin Bacon, the film portrays the universal struggle of young people trying to find their place in the world.Whether you’re a fan of the original 1984 version or the 2011 remake, Footloose has left an indelible mark on cinema and continues to be a cultural touchstone. Its legacy lives on through its infectious music, unforgettable dance moves, and the significant impact it has had on inspiring generations to let loose and follow their hearts.

FAQs

1) When was Footloose released?

Footloose was initially released in 1984 and later remade in 2011.

2) Who starred in the original Footloose?

The lead role of Ren McCormack was played by Kevin Bacon in the original film.

3) Is Footloose based on a true story?

No, Footloose is not based on a true story. It is a fictional narrative inspired by various real-life events and dance movements of the time.

4) What is the signature song of Footloose?

The title track “Footloose” by Kenny Loggins is the signature song of the movie.

5) Where was the original Footloose movie filmed?

The majority of the original Footloose was filmed in Utah, specifically in the town of Payson.

6) Did the 2011 remake of Footloose receive positive reviews?

The 2011 remake received mixed reviews, with some praising the performances and modernization of the story, while others felt it didn’t capture the magic of the original.

7) Are there any sequels to Footloose?

No, there are no official sequels to Footloose. However, the success of the movie inspired a Broadway musical adaptation.

8) Did Kevin Bacon actually do all the dancing in Footloose?

While Kevin Bacon performed many of his dance sequences in the movie, he had a dance double for some of the more complex moves.

9) What is the moral of Footloose?

The moral of Footloose is the importance of standing up for what you believe in, challenging societal norms, and embracing your own identity.

10) How did Footloose influence popular culture?

Footloose became a cultural phenomenon, popularizing dance as a form of self-expression and inspiring countless individuals to let loose and have some fun.

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