StunnaKrypto Self-important, over-dramatic, uninspired.

Stometer Save your money for something good and enjoyable

Sammy-Jo Cervantes There are moments that feel comical, some horrific, and some downright inspiring but the tonal shifts hardly matter as the end results come to a film that's perfect for this time.

Myron Clemons A film of deceptively outspoken contemporary relevance, this is cinema at its most alert, alarming and alive.

Bryan Kluger I've been a fan of dance for my entire life. From as long as I can remember, I've taught myself to dance by watching old VHS tapes of Michael Jackson, movies that starred Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly, and concerts of Motown legends that showcased a lot of dance numbers. Later in life, I even took some classes to learn how to move better. Needless to say, movies that involve dancing make me happy. I'll rephrase that. Movies with a great plot, solid acting, and great direction that involve the art of dance make me happy. I will leave the 'Step Up' films on the side of the road any day.However, with this film by Susan Seidelman called 'Musical Chairs', this is one dance movie that you can add to one of your favorites, despite some of its clichés. Seidelman has rounded out her movie with an amazing cast and a good script that tells the story of love, tragedy, and dance, all from a beautiful perspective. Unfortunately, 'Musical Chairs' only came out in a few theaters across the U.S. during a weekend when a big blockbuster movie came out. Almost no critics or the viewing public saw this movie and thus, it was swept under the rug very quickly. Luckily for us, HBO is giving it a run on their cable network to give this great film its deserved spotlight.The film is set in New York and follows Armando (E.J. Bonilla), who is a man who has a passion for dance and wants desperately to do stage work, but can only find custodial work at a local dance studio to make ends meet and possibly get his foot in the door. While working there, he takes notice of the beautiful Mia Franklin (Leah Pipes), the star ballroom dancer who is secretly having an affair with with studio owner Daniel (Philip Willingham). Mia catches Armando dancing by himself one day and sees that he is actually quite good and gives him a few lessons.One day, Mia leaves the studio and ends up getting hit by a taxi, which leaves her a permanent paraplegic. Being madly in love with Mia, Armando persuades her and a few other people in the therapy hospital to join and compete in a wheelchair ballroom dancing competition. I know, this has Oscar written all over it, right? As Armando and Mia are falling love with each other, Armando's mother would rather see her son with another beautiful girl without a severe handicap, and she goes to great lengths to sabotage their relationship. Sometimes to comical outcomes.Through a lot of struggles, training, and dancing, Mia and Armando work towards winning that dance competition, but in fact, they might have already won, as they have found in each other their soul mate. I know it seems like there is a heavy layer of cheese throughout, but Seidelman's direction and Marty Madden's script hits the right steps every inch of the way, despite some of the clichés and story arcs you've seen in these types of romantic films before. Bonilla and Pipes give great performances and their chemistry on screen is infectious. 'Musical Chairs' is a very rewarding movie.

dayna-475-500188 As a dancer and a New Yorker, I truly enjoyed this movie. I thought it was very touching and would recommend it to friends! They touched on so many different topics that were very sensitive and they did it with class and elegance. The film was also shot very well and I absolutely loved the music. Mario Grigorov is a genius and brought a personal touch to it. The film was filled with movement and made me want to dance! Overall I truly thought it was very well done and was a love story that could transcend any genre. I gave it a ten for many reasons and think many people will enjoy it. I know the director has done some really great movies and she can add this one to her arsenal.

amanda-bowers A sweet and fun story, and a great performance by EJ Bonilla.Susan Seidelman delivers a heartwarming and beautiful love story full of energy, emotion and uplifting moments. Leah Pipes and EJ Bonilla have great chemistry and look like they're on their way to be stars.The dancing is well choreographed and the music is upbeat and exciting. Seidelman does a good job of balancing the sadness of the tragedy with inspiring scenes and a moving ending. The film has and amazing spirit and leaves you feeling happy and upbeat.I would recommend this film to everyone. It's a sweet love story and gives the audience a beautiful look into an unusual world of dance.

yewts I saw this film at the Woodstock Film Festival. Before I saw it, the whole premise of the movie sounded rather implausible to make a great film. But the director, Susan Seidelman surprises you every steps of the way. The amazing ensemble cast and funny jokes keep you entertained. And the film has some of the best dancing scenes in the recent years. I am not going to spoil it here, but you'll be surprised! The main character Armando, played by E.J.Bonilla is not only a great actor, but he has a charisma that carries the film. It's a story that could be easily turned into a soap opera, but Musical Chairs avoids every sentimentality and still keeps it emotional. In the end, the film is very uplifting. A beautiful film!