Stepping Out

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 ****

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!!

Stepping Out is a gentle feel good musical comedy with plenty of dance numbers. It was supposed to mark a return to form for Liza Minnelli after years of drink and drugs issues.

Minnelli plays Mavis a one time professional dancer in a chorus line in New York who has moved to Buffalo. She starts a dance studio for beginners and ends up getting invited to put on a show for charity.

Her dance class are mainly female with just one guy (Bill Irwin) and range widely in age. Julie Walters plays a hygiene obsessed housewife, Shelly Winters is the temperamental pianist. Everyone has some side issues or problem but will these no hopers get their dance act together in time for the show is the essence of the story.

This is a sweet and enjoyable enough film. Its unpretentious fun, Minnelli does enough to show that in essence she has squandered her talent since her Oscar winning turn as Sally Bowles and there are enough familiar faces in the film to keep your feet tapping along.

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.

Lewis Gilbert finds more magic with Julie Walters who is brilliant in her bit. Liza Minelli is terrific and everybody is having a grand old time in one of the best movies nobody's ever heard of. This is by no means a great or important film, but it is marvelously enjoyable entertainment from beginning to end in a true ensemble piece. If you are in the video store and just want to feel good, rent this film.