Release year and quick profile
Footloose came out in 1984 as an American musical drama directed by Herbert Ross. The film stars Kevin Bacon, Lori Singer, Terry O’Quinn, and John Lithgow. It was produced by Columbia Pictures and became known for its contemporary soundtrack and choreography. This evergreen profile explains the film’s origins, context, and lasting influence for readers seeking clear, reliable background.
Key cast and creative team
Kevin Bacon plays Ren McCormack, the city teenager who moves to a small town where dancing is banned. Lori Singer appears as Ariel, the pastor’s daughter. Supporting performances by John Lithgow, Terry O’Quinn, and Chris Penn add depth. Director Herbert Ross and screenwriter Dean Pitchford shaped a story that tied music, rebellion, and community conflict into a mainstream hit.
Background and setting
Set in the fictional town of Bomont, Footloose reflects tensions between conservative religious values and youthful expression. The ban on dancing is rooted in a tragic accident involving local teens. The narrative follows Ren’s effort to challenge the ordinance through music and dance, using contemporary pop and rock tracks as a catalyst for social change.
Notable music and choreography
The soundtrack features hits such as ‘Footloose,’ ‘Let’s Hear It for the Boy,’ and ‘Almost Paradise.’ These songs reinforced the film’s themes of freedom and self-expression. The choreography by Patricia Birch coordinated with onscreen performances to amplify energy and emotion, making musical sequences central to storytelling rather than decorative interludes.
Box office and reception
Footloose performed strongly at the box office and received mixed-to-positive reviews. Its blend of drama, music, and moral debate resonated with audiences, especially younger viewers. Over time, the film has been recognized as a significant example of 1980s teen cinema and a cultural touchstone for discussions about youth autonomy and authority.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Release year | 1984 | Studio records |
| Director | Herbert Ross | Credits / official sources |
| Studio | Columbia Pictures | Studio records |
| Running time | 107 minutes | Studio records |
| MPAA rating | PG | Classification records |
Cultural impact and legacy
Footloose remains a reference point for debates on censorship, youth rights, and the role of art in public life. Television references, school curricula, and commentary pieces continue to invoke the film. Its exploration of how policy and personal expression intersect maintains relevance in discussions about community standards and individual freedom.
Evergreen appeal and availability
The film’s availability on home video, streaming platforms, and television rebroadcasts has sustained its visibility. Viewers revisit Footloose for its story, music, and period details, while new audiences discover it through retrospectives. This steady interest supports its status as an enduring, evergreen profile in popular film history.