Ask Me to Dance

Another self-produced and distributed vanity film by - yes, really - director, producer, writer, distributor, AND star Tom Malloy. Even seeing two of these credits listed simultaneously is a red flag for some of the most talented names in the industry, and this auteur is clearly not going to be accused of talent. The Tommy Wiseau vibes are thick in this 93-minute mess, a confused mishmash of boring, unfunny clichés desperately pushed through strained paces. One thinks he should perhaps stop trying, and knows that this is another film to miss. Dance fans have many less inept options to choose from. (1/10 stars)

A gypsy woman predicts, that Jill (Briana Evigan) and Jack (Tom Malloy), will achieve love in four days. So, you already know where Ask Me to Dance (2022), is going. This film has the normal, rom-com, modern-day, movie tropes, including meeting the bipolar girl, at the speed-dating event. When the old, gypsy lady meets Jack, she hands her cat to him and just before the edit-cut, it looks, much like, the cat wanted to scratch his eyes out. The casting choices in this film are weird. I don't get Tom Malloy as the leading man. He bites his lower lip too much and makes weird faces. And, how unoriginal to name your main characters, Jack and Jill. Mario Cantone (Sex in the City, 1998-2004) plays Jill's friend, Patrick. Briana Evigan is the daughter of actor, Greg Evigan, who for people over 45, know him from the TV-show, BJ and the Bear (1978-1981). After Mario Cantone, the biggest name in the film, with veteran-creed, is Joyce DeWitt (Janet from Three's Company, 1977-1984).

Ask Me to Dance (2022), feels like an expensively, long, college film. It smells like, the low budget, independent film variety of romantic comedies, that go straight to video/streaming. However, this dreary, independent, rom-com has moments strong enough to get an E For Effort, but it is a tough watch to see. DeWitt's character is head-scratching, with a weird, southern accent, mixed with a granny-type of Mrs. Roper, if she had a carry-permit. This approach to her character is so bad, it seems out of place. You don't really even like her much. Also, the dancing isn't that very exciting either and the film, ends like a wedding video. Who needs that? However, let's give credit, where credit is due, especially since Tom Malloy was pulling triple duty, as not only just the main actor, but also the writer/director of Ask Me to Dance (2022). It's also evident, that Malloy and Evigan give it their best with the dancing scenes. If Malloy had hired another actor for the Jack role, things may have worked-out better.

PMTM Grade: 4.5 (E) = 5 IMDB.

I went with a group of friends and we all laughed out loud! We often talk about how hard it is to date when you're over 40, and this movie nailed it in a funny and touching way. The speed-dating scene was hysterical. Tom Malloy (Jack) was endearing (OMG his scene with the cat!)and believable as the geeky IT guy looking for love, and Briana Evigan (Jill) was enchanting to watch--I'll definitely be looking for her in other films. I enjoyed the escape from reality and found myself wishing I lived somewhere where all the bar patrons knew how to dance like in the movie. The only reason I didn't give it 10 stars is that I wanted to see Jack and Jill's relationship evolve. In other words--I wish it had been longer!

Briana Evigan fans may go into this film thinking it's a dance movie. Instead you get a 90 minute episode of Love American Style. The over-the-top humor is so ham-handed it's not even mildly cute. Writer/Director Tom Malloy spends the entire film mugging at the camera. The supporting characters are so unbelievably stupid, they can't be taken seriously. There's a scene featuring Olympic Gold Medalist Kurt Angle that feels as if it's from an Ed Wood horror film. If Siskel and Ebert were still alive, there's no doubt this movie would have been their Dog-Of-The-Week. Nobody should ever give Tom Malloy another penny to make another film.

I had the pleasure of watching "Ask Me to Dance" during my flight, and it turned out to be a delightful and heartwarming movie that beautifully weaved together the themes of dating and dancing. The film follows the enchanting journey of two endearing characters, exploring their quest for love and self-discovery through the magical world of dance.

As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a charming and relatable protagonist who has always been passionate about dancing but is struggling to find a meaningful connection in her love life. Enter the charismatic love interest, a talented dance instructor, whose magnetic charm sparks an unexpected romance that transcends the dance floor.

What sets "Ask Me to Dance" apart is its ability to blend comedic moments with poignant ones, creating a well-rounded narrative that resonates with the audience on various emotional levels. The witty humor and clever dialogues keep the viewers entertained while also allowing them to connect with the characters' vulnerabilities and personal growth.

The film's dance sequences are a visual treat, beautifully choreographed and performed by the talented cast. The artistry of the dance not only adds a layer of elegance to the movie but also serves as a metaphor for the characters' emotional expression and development.

Throughout the film, we witness the protagonists' ups and downs, their hesitations and triumphs, all of which reflect the complexities of modern relationships and the universal desire for genuine connections. The supporting characters add depth to the storyline, creating a vivid ensemble that enhances the overall cinematic experience.

"Ask Me to Dance" delivers a heartwarming message about embracing life's challenges and seizing the opportunity to dance through its ups and downs. It reminds us that love and self-expression go hand in hand, and sometimes, all we need is a little courage to step onto the dance floor and invite someone to join us.

In conclusion, "Ask Me to Dance" is a delightful blend of romance, humor, and dance that leaves a lasting impression. Its charming characters, captivating dance sequences, and touching storyline make it a must-watch film that will leave you with a warm and inspired heart long after the credits roll.