Stomp Out Loud

Stomp Out Loud is an electrifying and magnetic 1997 film that isn't confined to any conventional labels of genres. Deftly merging the boundary-pushing edges of rhythmic performances with almost cinematic excellence, this film offered a refreshing take on the contemporary performing arts scene of the late 90s. The film adopts its core essence from a widely popular stage show called 'Stomp', which has been enchanting audiences worldwide with its robust yet intricate beauty of synchrony and rhythm.

Based in a variety of seemingly ordinary city landscapes, Stomp Out Loud transitions effortlessly from one nontraditional set-up to another, unveiling the vast canvas of an urban jungle as the backdrop for the sequence of performances. Well-known places, such as alleyways, kitchens, and even sewers, strike a visual and aural harmony in a symbolic representation of the city's everyday life. This serves as an innovative platform for a group of extraordinarily talented performers to weave a net of captivating rhythms using diversely unconventional instruments.

Starring Michael Bove, Steven Dean Davis, and Dashiell Eaves, along with an exceptional ensemble cast, this film revolves around the universal language of rhythm and movement, avoiding the regular dialogue-driven narrative entirely. Accomplished performers, with an innate sense of rhythm and an imaginative aptitude for making music out of mundane objects, the cast proffers an exhilaratingly energetic performance. Yet, within the stomping, clapping and banging, there lies an underlying sense of delicacy and sincerity, making the film a truly immersive experience.

Michael Bove, with his agile yet measured movements, creates a whirlpool of energy around him, infectiously enveloping the viewer into his world of rhythm. Meanwhile, Steven Dean Davis's charismatic presence, resonating well with the resounding beats of the everyday knickknacks turned instruments, adds a unique energy to the ensemble's dynamic performance.

Finally, Dashiell Eaves shines as a beacon of refinement amidst the chaos and disarray. His performance bridges finesse and fury, strength and sensitivity, breathing life into the non-traditional musical elements. His attention to detail elevates the performances to a realm where each beat is an articulate expression of art, evoking a symphony of emotions in the viewer.

The distinct creative genius of Stomp Out Loud is perceptible in its intriguing auditory landscape. It relies heavily on the audio effects and the encompassing silence, blending them seamlessly to create a breathtaking sonic spectacle. The music stems from the synergy of the strangely ordinary objects, like brooms, newspapers, trash cans, and even zippo lighters, all forming an ensemble of unconventional instruments. Each performer, armed with these unconventional props, conjures a rhythmic symphony that is both startlingly unique and pleasingly familiar.

Stomp Out Loud is also visually enchanting. The gritty, urban setting juxtaposed with the fervour of the performances creates striking visual imagery. Beyond the fast-paced beat sequences and enthralling group performances, the film delves into the visual narrative's subtleties, carefully chronicling the performers' expressions and their intense focus.

While the primary focus of the movie is the performers and the art they bring to life, it's also underscored with a subtle layer of social narrative. The diversity among the performers in terms of ethnicity, gender, and age contributes to the inclusive representation, as they all find a common ground in their mutual appreciation and exploration of rhythm.

Directed by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas, Stomp Out Loud is a spirited celebration of rhythm and movement. It takes the viewer on a journey through familiar spaces and ordinary noises, turning them into artistic arenas and rousing symphonies. It is innovative performance art that shatters the boundaries of expression, changing the way we perceive the world around us, all while tapping our feet in tune along with the energetic beat sequences that resound throughout the film.