Breakdancing (along with bandannas and stonewashed denim) is preserved forever in these amazing films. Learn by watching, but remember these people are professionals, so don’t get too ambitious–even Alfonso Ribeiro fucked up his neck on a spin.
Wild Style (1983)–Scooby-Doo!!! This is the original breakdancin’,
graffiti-sprayin’, old school rappin’ movie. Zoro is screwed: His girlfriend
dissed him, some punk asses are taking credit for his work, and he’s totally
self-involved. Fab Five Freddy comes to his rescue, and the whole gang puts
on a rap show in an old bandshell that Zoro graffs on the sly.
Breakin’ (1984)–Ozone, Special K, Turbo; how could any of us forget
the first breakdancing movie ever made? Kelly’s a rich girl dissatisfied with
her classical dance training, until she meets street-tough Ozone, falls in love,
becomes Special K, combines fan kicks with the worm, and lives happily ever
after… at least until Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo.
Body Rock (1984)–Lorenzo Lamas plays Chilly D, a hunk who gives up
breakin’ for fame and “real dancing.” Consequently, his life falls apart. Let
this be a lesson to all.
Delivery Boys (1984)–This cheesy, homoerotic film is about good-hearted
delivery drivers whose rival breakin’ crew kidnaps them, one by one. They all
end up in rather compromising situations but make it to the New York City Break-Off
in the nick of time! Watch out for the guy in knee-high silver space boots,
and the performance Mario Van Peebles doesn’t want you to know about. Hilarious.
Beat Street (1984)–Possibly the best film ever made on the topic,
concerning street kids and dramatic graffiti/breakin’ warfare. Kickin’ soundtrack
includes Grand Master Melle Mel.