The sundance film Festival has once again delivered a gem that captivated audiences and critics alike. Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty! directed by Josef Kubota Wladyka is set to grace theaters this fall on September 25 thanks to an acquisition by Sony Pictures Classics. This film, which won the U.S. Dramatic Directing award at Sundance, promises a unique blend of emotion, dance, and romance.
The film stars the acclaimed Rinko Kikuchi as Haru, a passionate participant in Tokyo’s ballroom dance competitions. Alongside her are Alberto Guerra and Alejandro Edda who bring to life the vibrant and complex characters that populate this heartfelt story.
The Story of Haru and Luis
Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty! follows the story of Haru and Luis, who share a deep love for competing in Tokyo’s ballroom dance scene. Their world is shattered by a tragic event, leading Haru to withdraw into isolation. However, her friends’ persistence brings her back to the dance studio, where she meets a new instructor, Fedir, played by Alberto Guerra. As sparks fly between Haru and Fedir, she must navigate her grief and newfound Desire.
The film’s synopsis reads: “Inspired by the spirit of Josef’s mother, Ha-Chan, HA-CHAN, SHAKE YOUR BOOTY! follows Haru and Luis who love competing in Tokyo’s ballroom dance scene, but after tragedy strikes, Haru withdraws into isolation. When friends coax her back to the studio, she develops an infatuation with the new instructor. She must face what comes next as sparks fly.”
Critical Acclaim and Dance Sequences
Critics have praised the film for its joyful depiction of Tokyo’s ballroom dance scene and its ability to balance romantic swings with pathos. Blake Simons noted, “In dance, you have to lead with confidence. Your partner looks to you for guidance, and they require you to look back at them responsively, to move instinctually without faltering. There’s need for surefootedness, consistency, and impeccable timing. Luckily for us, Josef Kubota Wladyka’s fun and deceptively frothy third feature Ha-chan, Shake Your Booty! has all of these qualities in spades.”
The film’s dance sequences have been particularly lauded, with critics highlighting the fantastical and wondrous choreography that complements the emotional journey of the characters. Kate Erbland from IndieWire wrote, “That Haru is even back in the dance studio is a win, and the bonus delight of Fedir only adds to her sense that, hey, maybe this grief thing can be overcome. Or, can it? As Haru embarks on a zippy, funny, fizzy, and eventually unnerving pursuit of Fedir, it’s only natural that darker emotions continue to surface.”
The Creative Team Behind the Film
Directed by Josef Kubota Wladyka who also co-wrote the script with Nicholas Huynh the film is a testament to the director’s unique vision and storytelling prowess. Wladyka’s previous works include the film Catch the Fair One and episodes of the series Tokyo Vice and One Piece. The film is produced by Kimberly Parker ZoxMao Nagakura and Josef Kubota Wladyka.
With its captivating story, stunning dance sequences, and exceptional performances, Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty! is poised to be one of the standout films of the year. Mark your calendars for its release on September 25 and prepare to be moved by this emotional and vibrant dance drama.
