Flashdance arrives on Netflix
Flashdance, an era-defining film from the 1980s, has been added to Netflix, with fans hailing it a 'milestone movie' and a 'heartwarming classic'. Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Adrian Lyne, the film stars Jennifer Beals as Alex, an 18-year-old welder who moonlights as a cabaret dancer in Pittsburgh but dreams of becoming a professional ballet dancer. Co-starring Michael Nouri as her boss-turned-older boyfriend Nick, the romantic drama became famous for its popular soundtrack and dance numbers.
Award-winning soundtrack
The movie won an Oscar and a Golden Globe for its iconic title song Flashdance… What A Feeling, sung by Irene Cara, which reached number one on the Billboard charts in May 1983. Other songs included Maniac, Lady, Lady, Lady, and Manhunt. Laura Branigan’s 1982 hit Gloria was used in a pivotal scene but not on the official soundtrack. According to the article, the film's presentation of songs as self-contained music videos allowed MTV to run them, giving the movie free promotion.
Box office success despite criticism
While critics like Roger Ebert placed it on his 'most hated' films list in 2005, Flashdance was a surprise box office smash. On a budget of $7 million, it grossed $201.5 million worldwide, becoming the third highest-grossing movie in the US in 1983 behind Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi and Tootsie.
Fan and critical reception
One fan wrote on Rotten Tomatoes: 'This is such an underrated 80s classic. The story is super good, the acting is amazing, music is catchy, and the story is very emotional and well done. I highly recommend this movie.' Another fan argued: 'Forty years later, good or bad doesn’t even apply. You watch this like you go see the Mona Lisa…not because you like it or not, but because of its place in history!' The film earned four Academy Award and four BAFTA nominations, recognizing its music, editing, sound, and cinematography. It also received five Golden Globe nods, including best picture and best actress for Beals.
Cultural legacy
Flashdance was adapted as a stage musical in 2008, premiering at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth. Jennifer Lopez and Geri Halliwell borrowed from its climactic audition scene for their music videos for I’m Glad (2002) and It’s Raining Men (2001), respectively. The American Film Institute ranked Flashdance… What A Feeling at 55 on its 2004 list AFI’s 100 Years…100 Songs. Flashdance is streaming now on Netflix in the UK.
