Watch Musical Chairs

Musical Chairs is a romantic drama film released in 2011, directed and written by Susan Seidelman. The movie tells the story of Armando (E.J. Bonilla), a Hispanic young man who dreams of becoming a professional dancer despite being employed as a cleaning worker at a prestigious dance studio in New York City. The protagonist's life changes after he meets Mia (Leah Pipes), a well-off and disabled woman who has given up her passion for dancing since she became paralyzed in a car accident. The two fall in love and decide to compete in a dancing competition called "Musical Chairs," where they hope to win the prize to take Mia to see a doctor who can perform a risky surgery that might restore her ability to walk.

The film is set in the backdrop of the bustling city of New York and captures the vibrant cultural diversity of the metropolis. The viewer is introduced to a wide range of characters, from the affluent socialite who runs the dance studio to the struggling Hispanic dancers who find solace in dancing. One of the standout performances in the movie is from veteran actress Priscilla Lopez, who plays the role of the supportive aunt of Armando, a single mother who nurtures his talent and encourages him to pursue his dreams.

The theme of the movie revolves around the power of love and resilience in overcoming obstacles and adversity. Armando and Mia's love story is not just a tale of two people from different social classes and ethnic backgrounds overcoming their differences but also the story of the personal struggles both face. Armando has to juggle the responsibilities of his day job while finding time to practice for the competition, while Mia has to battle her own demons and fears of failure.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the film is how it sensitively addresses issues of disability and access. Mia's disability is presented not as a mere plot device but as a condition that shapes her identity and worldview. The movie explores the challenges that people with disabilities face in pursuing their passions and dreams and the social stigma that comes with it.

Musical Chairs is a visual treat with breathtaking dance sequences that provide a glimpse into the world of salsa music and dance. The movie's music is also an essential part of its charm, with a rich score that blends traditional Latin music with contemporary pop tunes. The dancing competition serves as the climax of the movie, and the audience is taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as Armando and Mia compete against each other and other talented dancers.

The film is well acted, with E.J. Bonilla and Leah Pipes delivering stellar performances as the lead pair. Bonilla's portrayal of Armando's determination and passion for dance is particularly impressive, and his chemistry with Pipes is endearing. The movie also features a talented ensemble cast, with standout performances from Laverne Cox, Auti Angel, and Tom Pelphrey.

In conclusion, Musical Chairs is a heartfelt and inspiring movie that celebrates the power of love, passion, and resilience. The film's captivating blend of music, dance, and cultural diversity make it a must-watch for anyone interested in the joys of dance and the human spirit. Director Susan Seidelman has crafted a gem of a film that reaffirms that no obstacle is insurmountable if we have the courage to chase our dreams.

Musical Chairs is a 2011 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7 and a MetaScore of 46.