Gotta Dance

Gotta Dance is a charming and heartwarming 2008 documentary that showcases the talent and perseverance of a unique group of performers. Directed by Dori Berinstein, the film introduces us to the first-ever senior citizen dance team for the New Jersey Nets basketball team, the NETsationals. Notable characters include Joe Bianco, who is known for his quick wit and resilience; the effervescent and luminous Peggy Byrne, and the stalwart, handle-anything Margaret Dellavalle.

On the whole, their average age is 60, but they prove that age is nothing but a number. These tenacious dancers dare to step far outside their comfort zones, challenging sociocultural norms and expectations regarding what it means to grow older. They continuously push past their limits, dealing with challenges that come hand in hand with old age.

The journey begins with the open auditions for the NETsationals, where hundreds of hopefuls - including Joe, Peggy, and Margaret - try out. The selected members, who had no dancing experience before this, are then required to perfect the rigorous and fast-paced dance routines that are expected of a professional cheerleader. From the very start, we see every bit of their drive and determination to live their lives to the fullest and not let age deter them.

Joe Bianco is a stand-out character. He's a retired engineer and a grandfather, whose spirit for adventure and love for dance lead him to the auditions. He proves to be a resilient leader within the group and an example of how age doesn't diminish one's spirit or dreams.

Peggy Byrne, a former company executive with a vivacious and energetic personality, brings her love for dance and her infectious enthusiasm to the group. Her journey, filled with moments of joy and triumph, leaves a strong impact on both her fellow dancers and viewers.

You also get to know the backbone of the group, Margaret Dellavalle, a fearless 'gotta dance' woman who refuses to let her age define her. Margaret’s grit and perseverance are the driving force behind the group's resilience and growth.

The colorful personalities of these senior dancers and their determination to make the cut as professional dance performers is accompanied by significant physical and emotional challenges and tribulations. Their backgrounds are as diverse as they are fascinating, ranging from veterans and grandmother, to educators, and even doctors who all have worked hard and retired from their usual jobs to get into the groove and achieve their shared dream.

Their triumphant journey is a testament to the vitality of life, drawing on the theme of ‘it’s never too late to chase your passion.’ This moving film surpasses the realm of documentary storytelling, emerging as an inspiring chronicle of an unlikely group of seniors, as they leap, spin, and show us that age truly is just a number. It also offers poignant perspectives of self-confidence, ethos, and universality of spirit, reminding the viewers of the immediacy of taking hold of the fleeting moments of life.

Deftly interweaving high-paced, energetic dance sequences with quieter, more introspective moments, Berinstein skillfully illustrates the dynamics of this unconventional dance troupe. The lively interviews with the dancers punctuate their day-to-day struggles, giving a personal touch to their individual and collective identities. Enhanced by credible, memorable performances by Joe, Peggy, and Margret, the documentary is a delight to watch not just for dance lovers, but for all who appreciate compelling and authentic human stories.

The film is not just a regular sports movie, but it is about people who demonstrate their courage to come out of their shells and explore new possibilities and adventures, regardless of their age. These performers follow their love for dance into an entirely new community, demonstrating the capacity for growth that persists throughout one's life.

In conclusion, Gotta Dance is a feel-good documentary that celebrates the spirit of dance, the vivacity of life and the inherent ability within humans of all ages to empathize, adapt, and triumph. It challenges our conventional understanding of what old age should be and sets an overwhelmingly inspirational narrative that resonates with viewers of all age groups. This light-hearted movie serves as a fitting tribute to every person who dares to live their passion and dreams, no matter the age.