Welcome, dance aficionados and movie buffs, to a whirl of glitz, glamour, and gravity-defying moves! If you’ve ever dreamed of pirouetting across the living room like a prima ballerina or moonwalking your way to the kitchen, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re counting down the top 10 dance movies of all time, where the rhythm meets the reel and every step tells a story.
Picture this: a rainy afternoon, you’re curled up on the couch with popcorn in hand, and the TV flickers to life. Suddenly, you’re not just watching a movie—you’re transported to a world where every heartbeat syncs with a drumbeat, and every leap is a leap of faith. These films don’t just make you want to dance; they grab you by the heartstrings and pull you onto the dance floor.
From the gritty streets of New York to the elegant halls of European academies, our list has it all. Think of it as a smorgasbord of toe-tapping, hip-shaking, and spirit-lifting flicks that have left an indelible mark on cinema history. So, lace up those dancing shoes and let’s dive in—trust me, by the end, you’ll be dancing like nobody’s watching!
Detailed Table of Top 10 Greatest Dance Movies of All Time
| Ranking | Movie Title | Genres | Runtime | Directors | Stars Cast | IMDB Rating | Box Office Collection | Where to Watch |
| 1. | Singin’ in the Rain (1952) | Comedy, Musical, Romance | 1h 43m | Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen | Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor, Debbie Reynolds, Jean Hagen, Millard Mitchell, Cyd Charisse | 8.3/10 | $7.2 million | Google Play Movies, Apple TV |
| 2. | The Red Shoes (1948) | Drama, Music, Romance | 2h 13m | Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger | Anton Walbrook, Marius Goring, Moira Shearer, Léonide Massine, Robert Helpmann, Albert Bassermann, Esmond Knight, Ludmilla Tchérina | 8.1/10 | $5 million | Amazon Prime Video, Max, Max Amazon Channel, Criterion Channel, Roku Channel, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube |
| 3. | Black Swan (2010) | Drama, Thriller | 1h 48m | Darren Aronofsky | Natalie Portman, Vincent Cassel, Mila Kunis, Barbara Hershey, Winona Ryder, Benjamin Millepied | 8.0/10 | – | Max, Max Amazon Channel, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store |
| 4. | Cabaret (1972) | Drama, Musical, Romance | 2h 4m | Bob Fosse | Liza Minnelli, Michael York, Helmut Griem, Marisa Berenson, Joel Grey | 7.8/10 | $42.8 million | Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Vudu |
| 5. | All That Jazz (1979) | Drama, Music, Musical | 2h 3m | Bob Fosse | Roy Scheider, Jessica Lange, Ann Reinking, Leland Palmer, Cliff Gorman, Ben Vereen | 7.8/10 | $37.8 million | Tubi TV |
| 6. | Top Hat (1935) | Comedy, Musical, Romance | 1h 41m | Mark Sandrich | Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers | 7.7/10 | $3.2 million | Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store |
| 7. | Billy Elliot (2000) | Drama, Music | 1h 50m | Stephen Daldry | Julie Walters, Jamie Bell, Jamie Draven, Gary Lewis, Adam Cooper, Jean Heywood | 7.7/10 | $109.3 million | Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store |
| 8. | And Then We Danced (2019) | Drama, Romance | 1h 53m | Levan Akin | Levan Gelbakhiani, Bachi Valishvili, Ana Javakishvili | 7.6/10 | $580,075 | Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store |
| 9. | Flashdance (1983) | Drama, Music, Romance | 1h 35m | Adrian Lyne | Jennifer Beals, Michael Nouri, Lilia Skala, Sunny Johnson, Kyle T. Heffner | 7.5/10 | $201.5 million | Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store |
| 10. | West Side Story (2021) | Crime, Musical, Drama | 2h 36m | Steven Spielberg | Ansel Elgort, Ariana DeBose, Mike Faist, Rita Moreno, Rachel Zegler | 7.1/10 | $76 million | Disney Plus, fuboTV, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store |
1. Singin’ in the Rain (1952)
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Genres: Comedy, Musical, Romance
Runtime: 1h 43m
Directors: Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen
Writers: Betty Comden, Adolph Green
Story By: -N/A
Stars Cast: Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor, Debbie Reynolds, Jean Hagen, Millard Mitchell, Cyd Charisse
Producers: Arthur Freed
Release Date: 11 April 1952
IMDB Rating: 8.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 100%
JustWatch Rating: 95%
Box Office Collection: $7.2 million
Famous Quotes: Don Lockwood: “What a glorious feeling, I’m happy again.”
Where to Watch: Google Play Movies, Apple TV
Picture this: a movie as sweet as a honeycomb and as timeless as your grandma’s pie recipe. In the mix of comedy, musical, and romance, “Singin’ in the Rain” is a delightful concoction that will have you grinning like a Cheshire cat.
The story flows smoothly under the direction of Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen, with a script so sharp it could cut glass, penned by Betty Comden and Adolph Green. With a stellar cast that includes Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor, Debbie Reynolds, Jean Hagen, Millard Mitchell, and Cyd Charisse, this film is a veritable garden of Hollywood legends.
Released on April 11, 1952, it quickly became a box office darling, raking in $7.2 million—a tidy sum back in the day. Critics and audiences alike have sung its praises louder than a rooster at dawn, evidenced by its impressive ratings: an 8.3/10 on IMDb, a flawless 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, and a 95% on JustWatch.
Arthur Freed, the producer, managed to orchestrate this masterpiece with the finesse of a conductor leading a symphony. The film’s runtime is a brisk 1 hour and 43 minutes, but every moment is packed with joy, laughter, and unforgettable tunes.
One of the movie’s most famous quotes, delivered by Don Lockwood (played by Gene Kelly), sums it up perfectly: “What a glorious feeling, I’m happy again.” This line is as iconic as a red carpet at a movie premiere, capturing the essence of the film’s exuberant spirit.
2. The Red Shoes (1948)
Genres: Drama, Music, Romance
Runtime: 2h 13m
Directors: Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger
Writers: Hans Christian Andersen, Emeric Pressburger, Keith Winter
Story By: -N/A
Stars Cast: Anton Walbrook, Marius Goring, Moira Shearer, Léonide Massine, Robert Helpmann, Albert Bassermann, Esmond Knight, Ludmilla Tchérina
Producers: Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger
Release Date: 6 September 1948
IMDB Rating: 8.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 99%
JustWatch Rating: 83%
Box Office Collection: $5 million
Famous Quotes: “Why do you want to dance?”
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Max, Max Amazon Channel, Criterion Channel, Roku Channel, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube
“The Red Shoes“ is a dazzling blend of drama, music, and romance that hits the emotional notes like a master violinist. Directed by the visionary duo Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, the film spins a tale as intricate as a spider’s web, inspired by the haunting fairy tale of Hans Christian Andersen.
With a runtime of 2 hours and 13 minutes, this cinematic gem draws you into a world where art and ambition collide. The script, crafted by Emeric Pressburger and Keith Winter, is as tightly woven as a ballet slipper, pulling you into a mesmerizing dance of passion and tragedy.
The cast is a constellation of stars, with Anton Walbrook, Marius Goring, and Moira Shearer leading the way. Léonide Massine, Robert Helpmann, Albert Bassermann, Esmond Knight, and Ludmilla Tchérina round out the ensemble, each adding their own sparkle to this dazzling production.
Released on September 6, 1948, “The Red Shoes” quickly pirouetted its way into the hearts of audiences and critics alike. It boasts an IMDb rating of 8.1/10, a near-perfect 99% on Rotten Tomatoes, and an 83% on JustWatch. The film’s box office collection was a solid $5 million—a princely sum for its time.
The film’s narrative pivots around one poignant question, “Why do you want to dance?” This line echoes throughout the story, capturing the essence of the characters’ inner turmoil and relentless drive. It’s a question that resonates like a heartbeat, reminding us all of the sacrifices and passions that define our pursuits.
3. Black Swan (2010)
Genres: Drama, Thriller
Runtime: 1h 48m
Directors: Darren Aronofsky
Writers: Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz, John J. McLaughlin
Story By: -N/A
Stars Cast: Natalie Portman, Vincent Cassel, Mila Kunis, Barbara Hershey, Winona Ryder
Producers: Mike Medavoy, Arnold W. Messer, Brian Oliver, Scott Franklin
Release Date: 1 September 2010
IMDB Rating: 8.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 83%
JustWatch Rating: 92%
Box Office Collection: –
Famous Quotes: “I felt it. Perfect. I was perfect.”
Where to Watch: Max, Max Amazon Channel, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store
“Black Swan“ is a gripping dance through the dark corridors of the human psyche, a drama and thriller that leaves you breathless and on the edge of your seat. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, this film is like a haunting melody that lingers long after the final note has been played.
With a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes, “Black Swan” plunges you into a world of obsession and transformation. The screenplay, penned by Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz, and John J. McLaughlin, is as intricate and layered as the ballet itself.
The cast, led by Natalie Portman, delivers performances that are nothing short of electrifying. Vincent Cassel, Mila Kunis, Barbara Hershey, and Winona Ryder round out the ensemble, each adding depth and tension to this psychological masterpiece.
Released on September 1, 2010, “Black Swan” mesmerized audiences and critics alike, earning an IMDb rating of 8.0/10, an 83% on Rotten Tomatoes, and a 92% on JustWatch. While its box office collection remains undisclosed, the film’s impact and acclaim speak volumes.
One of the film’s most famous quotes, “I felt it. Perfect. I was perfect,” encapsulates the chilling pursuit of perfection that drives the narrative. It’s a line that echoes with a sense of triumph and tragedy, much like the film itself.
4. Cabaret (1972)
Genres: Drama, Musical, Romance
Runtime: 2h 4m
Directors: Bob Fosse
Writers: Joe Masteroff, John Van Druten, Christopher Isherwood
Story By: -N/A
Stars Cast: Liza Minnelli, Michael York, Helmut Griem, Marisa Berenson, Joel Grey
Producers: Cy Feuer
Release Date: 13 February 1972
IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 92%
JustWatch Rating: 88%
Box Office Collection: $42.8 million
Famous Quotes: Sally Bowles: “Life is a cabaret, old chum. Come to the cabaret.”
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Vudu
“Cabaret“ is a dazzling and poignant exploration of life, love, and politics set against the backdrop of 1930s Berlin. Directed by the inimitable Bob Fosse, this film is like a grand tapestry, weaving together drama, musical, and romance genres with finesse.
Running for 2 hours and 4 minutes, “Cabaret” immerses you in a world that’s as vibrant and tragic as a wilting rose. The screenplay, adapted by Joe Masteroff, John Van Druten, and Christopher Isherwood, paints a vivid picture of an era teetering on the brink of chaos.
The film stars the luminous Liza Minnelli, whose performance is as unforgettable as a first kiss. Alongside her, Michael York, Helmut Griem, Marisa Berenson, and Joel Grey deliver performances that are as colorful as the cabaret itself.
Released on February 13, 1972, “Cabaret” quickly became a cultural touchstone, with an IMDb rating of 7.8/10, a sparkling 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, and an 88% on JustWatch. Its box office collection of $42.8 million underscores its massive appeal and enduring legacy.
One of the film’s most famous quotes, delivered by the indomitable Sally Bowles (played by Liza Minnelli), encapsulates the film’s spirit: “Life is a cabaret, old chum. Come to the cabaret.” It’s an invitation to embrace the spectacle of life, with all its highs and lows, joys and sorrows.
5. All That Jazz (1979)
Genres: Drama, Music, Musical
Runtime: 2h 3m
Directors: Bob Fosse
Writers: Robert Alan Aurthur, Bob Fosse
Story By: -N/A
Stars Cast: Roy Scheider, Jessica Lange, Ann Reinking, Leland Palmer, Cliff Gorman, Ben Vereen
Producers: Robert Alan Aurthur
Release Date: 20 December 1979
IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 87%
JustWatch Rating: 86%
Box Office Collection: $37.8 million
Famous Quotes: “I felt it. Perfect. I was perfect.”
Where to Watch: Tubi TV
“All That Jazz“ is a cinematic feast that dances between drama, music, and musical with the precision of a choreographed number. Directed by the legendary Bob Fosse, this film is as complex and riveting as the intricate steps of a Broadway production.
Clocking in at 2 hours and 3 minutes, “All That Jazz” pulls you into the whirlwind life of a driven yet self-destructive artist. The screenplay, co-written by Robert Alan Aurthur and Bob Fosse, is as sharp and dynamic as a jazz riff, capturing the highs and lows of showbiz with unflinching honesty.
The cast is headlined by Roy Scheider, who delivers a performance that sizzles with intensity. Jessica Lange, Ann Reinking, Leland Palmer, Cliff Gorman, and Ben Vereen round out the ensemble, each bringing their own sparkle to this vibrant mosaic.
Released on December 20, 1979, “All That Jazz” dazzled audiences and critics alike, earning an IMDb rating of 7.8/10, an 87% on Rotten Tomatoes, and an 86% on JustWatch. With a box office haul of $37.8 million, it proved to be both a critical and commercial success.
The film’s most famous quote, “I felt it. Perfect. I was perfect,” resonates like the final note of a powerful ballad, encapsulating the relentless pursuit of perfection that defines the protagonist’s journey.
6. Top Hat (1935)
Genres: Comedy, Musical, Romance
Runtime: 1h 41m
Directors: Mark Sandrich
Writers: Dwight Taylor, Allan Scott, Aladár László
Story By: -N/A
Stars Cast: Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers
Producers: Pandro S. Berman
Release Date: 29 August 1935
IMDB Rating: 7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 100%
JustWatch Rating: 81%
Box Office Collection: $3.2 million
Famous Quotes: “Isn’t This a Lovely Day (To Be Caught in the Rain)?”
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store
“Top Hat“ is a delightful whirlwind of comedy, music, and romance that twirls across the screen like a graceful dance. Directed by Mark Sandrich, this timeless classic is a testament to the magic of old Hollywood.
At a brisk 1 hour and 41 minutes, “Top Hat” transports you to a world of glamour and charm, where love blossoms amidst the glitz and glamour of showbiz. The screenplay, crafted by Dwight Taylor, Allan Scott, and Aladár László, is as witty and sophisticated as the film’s dapper leading man.
Speaking of leading men, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers shine like a pair of sparkling diamonds, their on-screen chemistry sizzling with every step and twirl. Their performances elevate “Top Hat” to legendary status, cementing its place in the annals of cinematic history.
Released on August 29, 1935, “Top Hat” waltzed its way into the hearts of audiences, earning an IMDb rating of 7.7/10, a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, and an 81% on JustWatch. Despite its modest box office collection of $3.2 million, the film’s enduring popularity has made it a beloved classic.
7. Billy Elliot (2000)
Genres: Drama, Music
Runtime: 1h 50m
Directors: Stephen Daldry
Writers: Lee Hall
Story By: -N/A
Stars Cast: Julie Walters, Gary Lewis, Jamie Bell, Jamie Draven, Adam Cooper
Producers: Greg Brenman, Jon Finn
Release Date: 19 May 2000
IMDB Rating: 7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 85%
JustWatch Rating: 96%
Box Office Collection: $109.3 million
Famous Quotes: “Just because I like ballet doesn’t mean I’m a poof, you know.”
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store
“Billy Elliot” pirouettes its way into the hearts of audiences with its stirring tale of passion, resilience, and breaking free from societal expectations. Directed by Stephen Daldry, this drama-musical is a poignant symphony of dreams and determination.
Clocking in at 1 hour and 50 minutes, “Billy Elliot” transports viewers to a mining town where a young boy’s love for ballet ignites a spark of rebellion against the status quo. The screenplay, penned by Lee Hall, is as heartfelt and resonant as the music that accompanies Billy’s journey.
The cast shines with performances that tug at the heartstrings. Julie Walters, Gary Lewis, Jamie Bell, Jamie Draven, and Adam Cooper bring depth and authenticity to their roles, capturing the struggles and triumphs of their characters with grace and sincerity.
Released on May 19, 2000, “Billy Elliot” struck a chord with audiences worldwide, earning an IMDb rating of 7.7/10, an 85% on Rotten Tomatoes, and an impressive 96% on JustWatch. Its box office collection of $109.3 million speaks to its universal appeal and enduring impact.
One of the film’s most memorable quotes, “Just because I like ballet doesn’t mean I’m a poof, you know,” encapsulates the theme of acceptance and self-discovery that resonates throughout the story. It’s a reminder that true strength lies in embracing who you are, regardless of societal norms.
8. And Then We Danced (2019)
Genres: Drama, Romance
Runtime: 1h 53m
Directors: Levan Akin
Writers: Levan Akin
Story By: -N/A
Stars Cast: Levan Gelbakhiani, Bachi Valishvili
Producers: Mathilde Dedye, Ketie Danelia
Release Date: 13 September 2019
IMDB Rating: 7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 94%
JustWatch Rating: 79%
Box Office Collection: $580,075
Famous Quotes: “There’s no room for weakness in Georgian dance.”
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store
“And Then We Danced“ spins a captivating tale of passion, identity, and the transformative power of dance. Directed by Levan Akin, this drama-romance sweeps viewers off their feet and into the mesmerizing world of Georgian dance.
With a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes, “And Then We Danced” immerses audiences in a poignant exploration of tradition, desire, and self-discovery. Written and directed by Levan Akin, the film’s narrative unfolds with the grace and intensity of a carefully choreographed performance.
Levan Gelbakhiani and Bachi Valishvili deliver riveting performances as they navigate the complexities of love and ambition in a conservative society. Their chemistry ignites the screen, infusing each scene with raw emotion and authenticity.
Released on September 13, 2019, “And Then We Danced” garnered critical acclaim, earning an IMDb rating of 7.6/10, a remarkable 94% on Rotten Tomatoes, and a rating of 79% on JustWatch. While its box office collection reached $580,075, the film’s impact transcends monetary success.
The film’s famous quote, “There’s no room for weakness in Georgian dance,” encapsulates the relentless pursuit of perfection and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. It echoes throughout the story, underscoring the challenges faced by the protagonists as they strive to express themselves authentically.
9. Flashdance (1983)
Genres: Drama, Music, Romance
Runtime: 1h 35m
Directors: Adrian Lyne
Writers: Thomas Hedley Jr., Joe Eszterhas
Story By: Tom Hedley
Stars Cast: Jennifer Beals, Michael Nouri
Producers: Don Simpson, Jerry Bruckheimer
Release Date: 15 April 1983
IMDB Rating: 7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 37%
JustWatch Rating: 90%
Box Office Collection: $201.5 million
Famous Quotes: “When you give up your dream, you die.”
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store
“Flashdance“ sizzles with the energy of a neon-lit dance floor and pulses with the beats of its iconic soundtrack. Directed by Adrian Lyne, this drama-music-romance is a timeless ode to the power of dreams and the rhythm of life.
Clocking in at 1 hour and 35 minutes, “Flashdance” thrusts viewers into the vibrant world of a steelworker by day and a dancer by night. The screenplay, crafted by Thomas Hedley Jr. and Joe Eszterhas, weaves a tale of ambition, love, and self-discovery that resonates long after the credits roll.
Jennifer Beals and Michael Nouri ignite the screen with their electric performances, capturing the passion and determination of their characters. Their chemistry crackles like fireworks against the backdrop of Pittsburgh’s industrial landscape.
Released on April 15, 1983, “Flashdance” captivated audiences worldwide, earning an IMDb rating of 7.5/10, a surprising 37% on Rotten Tomatoes, and an impressive 90% on JustWatch. Its box office collection soared to $201.5 million, making it a box office sensation of its time.
The film’s famous quote, “When you give up your dream, you die,” reverberates with the urgency of a heartbeat, reminding viewers of the importance of perseverance and passion. It’s a rallying cry for anyone chasing their dreams, urging them to never lose sight of what sets their soul on fire.
10. West Side Story (2021)
Genres: Crime, Musical, Drama
Runtime: 2h 36m
Directors: Steven Spielberg
Writers: Tony Kushner, Arthur Laurents
Story By: -N/A
Stars Cast: Ansel Elgort, Ariana DeBose, David Alvarez, Mike Faist, Rita Moreno, Rachel Zegler
Producers: Steven Spielberg, Kristie Macosko Krieger, Kevin McCollum
Release Date: 10 December 2021
IMDB Rating: 7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 92%
JustWatch Rating: 85%
Box Office Collection: $76 million
Famous Quotes: “Life matters even more than love.”
Where to Watch: Disney Plus, fuboTV, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store
“West Side Story” enchants audiences with its reimagined tale of love, conflict, and the pursuit of dreams against the backdrop of urban America. Directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg, this crime-musical-drama is a symphony of passion and tragedy.
Running for 2 hours and 36 minutes, “West Side Story” transports viewers to the gritty streets of New York City, where rival gangs clash amidst the melody of Leonard Bernstein’s iconic score. The screenplay, penned by Tony Kushner and Arthur Laurents, breathes new life into the classic story while staying true to its timeless themes.
Ansel Elgort, Ariana DeBose, David Alvarez, and Mike Faist lead a stellar cast, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. The presence of Rita Moreno, who starred in the original film, adds a touch of nostalgia and reverence to this modern adaptation.
Released on December 10, 2021, “West Side Story” received critical acclaim, earning an IMDb rating of 7.1/10, a stellar 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, and an 85% on JustWatch. While its box office collection reached $76 million, the film’s impact extends far beyond financial success.
The film’s famous quote, “Life matters even more than love,” resonates with the weight of experience and the complexity of human relationships. It serves as a poignant reminder that amidst the chaos and turmoil of life, it is our connections with others that truly define us.
Anas Chaudhary is a writer at Entertainment 24 Seven, specializing in entertainment news, facts, and trends. He brings a fresh perspective and engaging storytelling to his coverage of the latest happenings in the entertainment world.