Dança das Cadeiras

This film's plot doesn't stray far from the rom-com bible but it does the genre proud. It's also packed full of wonderful characters who breath lots of life into a solid script.

This is a great date movie or would be fantastic on a rainy Sunday afternoon. It's like a good meal with a funny friend - familiar without being at all boring. And, yes, it has a message but it's not a "message movie." The filmmakers obviously set out to entertain and they do a great job of it.

The cast is fun and very good looking. And several of the characters are fresh and new, particularly Chantelle (Laverne Cox) who steals several scenes. EJ Bonilla is fantastic as the lead and does a wonderful love- sick puppy face (without ever over doing it).

Overall, a really enjoyable film that leaves you wanting to know what is next for these characters - as any good film should.

I had never heard of wheelchair dancing, but thanks to this film, I now follow these artists and athletes with great joy. I loved the film, loved the characters, enjoyed some belly laughs and came away with a bigger view of the world. The theme of tolerance and acceptance resounded with both audiences with whom I saw this film, at both the Cinema Society of San Diego, then again at the Young Leaders Film Festival at the La Jolla Country Day School in San Diego. The film was received with enthusiasm by both groups, comprised of people from teenagers to senior citizens. At the Young Leaders Film Festival, the filmmaker made a special appearance and captivated the crowd. I hope she will continue to pursue such quality projects.

As of now, the rating for this film stands at a mere 2.2, which is quite low, and there is one aspect that makes the low score highly suspicious. There has been some known controversy about the film. Some in the disability community were quite upset that more disabled actors were not used in the film, and may have tried to influence the voting. They perhaps were unaware, or perhaps deliberately ignored, the fact that the leading female character begins as an able-bodied dance teacher. The idea that actress Leah Pipes is unqualified to act the role simply because she does not really use a wheelchair is truly ludicrous. (I am disabled myself, so I understand where the objections are coming from, but I disagree strongly with them.)

It is time this film received more exposure and that critical comment on it honestly reflected how well it is made, rather than reflecting biased attitudes. Films like this one, which has as its background the world of wheelchair ballroom dancing, are too important to let petty resentments get in the way of their appreciation.

I saw this film at the Woodstock Film Festival. Before I saw it, the whole premise of the movie sounded rather implausible to make a great film. But the director, Susan Seidelman surprises you every steps of the way. The amazing ensemble cast and funny jokes keep you entertained. And the film has some of the best dancing scenes in the recent years. I am not going to spoil it here, but you'll be surprised! The main character Armando, played by E.J.Bonilla is not only a great actor, but he has a charisma that carries the film. It's a story that could be easily turned into a soap opera, but Musical Chairs avoids every sentimentality and still keeps it emotional. In the end, the film is very uplifting. A beautiful film!

A sweet and fun story, and a great performance by EJ Bonilla.

Susan Seidelman delivers a heartwarming and beautiful love story full of energy, emotion and uplifting moments. Leah Pipes and EJ Bonilla have great chemistry and look like they're on their way to be stars.

The dancing is well choreographed and the music is upbeat and exciting. Seidelman does a good job of balancing the sadness of the tragedy with inspiring scenes and a moving ending. The film has and amazing spirit and leaves you feeling happy and upbeat.

I would recommend this film to everyone. It's a sweet love story and gives the audience a beautiful look into an unusual world of dance.