Island Swag: Born to Dance, New Zealand Hip-hop and the Dance Film

Since the release of Center Stage and Billy Elliot in 2000, audiences across the world have witnessed the steady ascension of a new 'cycle' of dance films. Last year heralded New Zealand's contribution: Tammy Davis' Born to Dance, featuring moves by prolific choreographer Parris Goebel. Jessica Friedmann examines the film's depictions of race, class, gender and sexuality in light of its (non-)adherence to genre as well as its authentic portrayal of Maori culture.

Additional keywords: interracial romance, working class, choreography, Step Up, Footloose, Girls Just Want to Have Fun, Misty Copeland, ballet, Breakin', Save the Last Dance.