source: Stepping Out

Moviecut—Stepping Out

Stepping Out

This movie wasn't meant to have deep meaning, it was meant to be enjoyed. This is the movie I plug in whenever I need a lift. Liza is thoroughly enjoyable. I never tire of watching her dance, and her voice is unbeatable, not to mention that she's a wonderful actress. The finale is great fun and shows Liza's unique style and pizazz -- there will always be only ONE Liza. I would recommend this movie to anyone who watches movies for the enjoyment of them, rather than expecting a movie to divulge the meaning of life. I was privileged to see Liza perform in person just a few days ago, and although she no longer dances, she still has the quality and power in her voice that never fails to thrill me. She was truly delightful with her humor, professionalism and graciousness. I love you Liza!!

I gave this little movie a 6 out 10 possible points as it does have some great tapping dancing and there are some interesting moments when the plot comes together but unfortunately this doesn't happen enough nor can the dancing alone carry this picture completely. I would recommend watching Stepping Out at least once maybe even twice. Liza Minnelli is good, her supporting cast is fair, the usual assortment of different characters that have their ups and downs with each other and Liza. I liked the ending, which I won't give away but I'll bet you will be able to guess after the first 15 minutes of the film. Try watching this film it worth that if not a little more. It is hard to buy, not on DVD and I bought a used VHS, must be out of print. Andy

Paramount didn't know how to market this breezily enjoyable mixture of "Rocky" and "A Chorus Line," and it remains Liza Minnelli's last feature (to date--hope springs enternal). She's terrific as a never-was hoofer whipping a (mostly hilarious) group of would-be tap dancers into shape for a charity show. Nora Dunn steals her scenes as a haughty society dame, while there's also good moments from Andrea Martin, Ellen Greene and the show-stopping Julie Walters ("Canes to me, please, canes to me...."). Liza has a great production number at the end.

Every now and then, "Stepping Out" touches down on some heartfelt emotions that most viewers will relate to; whether it's Liza Minnelli's jerk of a boyfriend, her loyalty to her tap dance students or the anxieties within the group, the script is surprisingly evocative once it gets down to the heart of the matter (after cutting through the crap). There's a lot of dross filtering through here, too many stumble-bums and pratfalls that I assume are there to get laughs, but Liza is solid (as usual) and does a good job at keeping the picture on some form of realistic ground. The dancers are colorful and interesting, but Shelley Winters as the pianist on social security has a tough time portraying a ridiculous warhorse in silly hats. **1/2 from ****

Someone wrote that "Stepping Out" was mostly forgettable. I beg to differ. It is not really "mostly forgettable", just formulaic. BUT that is what I like about it. I like the old "Let's find a barn and put on a show" plots -- that's what I liked watching when I was growing up. So,"Stepping Out" is a great example of the genre. Liza shines -- good music, great dancing and seeing the incomparable Shelly Winters was a plus. Some of the supporting cast have moved up the ladder -- Jane Krakowski, Julie Walters, Bill Erwin, Sheila McCarthy, Andrea Martin, Robyn Stevan, Ellen Greene, Carol woods, Luke Reilly. I see their name in the credits and I remember what fun it is to watch "Stepping Out" again. It reminds me of the small dance studios all over the country. I should know -- I took a tap class at one.

This is a gentle feel good film. There are some great performances especially Julie Walters who manages to keep us laughing through the film, then when you least expect it pulls at our heart strings with a very moving scene talking about her daughter. Liza Minnelli is engaging in the lead role, though this is another one of those films that does not rely on the central performance. The late Shelly Winters is great as the grumpy piano player. The class provides each of the group with something that their lives are missing and the story of these people is handled well by the director. The final stage number is in the tradition of an old Hollywood musical, all glitz and glamour and it works well. I remember at the time the film was not well received, which is a shame. It will I am sure stand the test of time and rank as one of Liza Minnelli's better outings on film.

Stepping Out isn't commonly spoken of nowadays, which is a shame as the film is a brilliant combination of Shelley Winters' comedy, Liza Minnelli's stamina and voice and superb performances by the 'Mavis Turner Tappers'. The story is inspiring as a group of amateur tap dancers try to make it to the top, and I watch it whenever I feel depressed - It raises your spirits and confidence.