Though fans are divided regarding whether the remake of pop culture classic "Dirty Dancing" is an abomination or an admirable effort, the show must go on, as they say.
Love it or hate it, helming the project is director Kenny Ortega, the original film's choreographer, also known for directing the "High School Musical" trilogy and Michael Jackson's "This Is It" concert film, as well as clever and culturally high-impact television fare such as "Ally McBeal" and "Gilmore Girls". [Fun fact: He also directed a few episodes of the Dirty Dancing TV show in the eighties! Which Paul Feig was third-billed on. Love is strange.]
With Lionsgate's formal announcement of its intent and a director attached, casting speculation has also began. A guy who can pull off the the trashy-and-tortured-with-a-heart-of-gold role, with a gorgeous physique and has dance moves to back it, is obviously important. Hopeful speculation has leaned along the lines of Justin Timberlake, Zac Efron, Ryan Gosling, etc.
But the heart and soul of the story is the timid and trapped brat-turned-bombshell Baby Houseman, breaking away from her overbearing family and finding her true passion in an unlikely love affair. (Look at that, I could write romance novel book jackets.) She's got to be like the wind! Which young star can fill Jennifer Grey's dancing shoes and breathe life into the classic character for a modern era?
Casandra Armour
