The “What a Feeling” scene from Flashdance (1983) is iconic not just for its dance choreography, but for its powerfully conveyed narrative of perseverance and triumph, encapsulating the feeling of achieving a seemingly impossible dream. It’s a visceral expression of raw emotion, relentless dedication, and the electrifying joy of artistic fulfillment, forever etching itself into the collective consciousness as a symbol of aspirational success.
The Anatomy of an Iconic Scene
The final dance sequence in Flashdance, soundtracked by Irene Cara’s Oscar-winning song “What a Feeling,” is more than just a dance performance; it’s a carefully constructed cinematic masterpiece. Director Adrian Lyne masterfully blends dynamic camerawork, evocative lighting, and emotionally charged music to create a scene that transcends mere entertainment and becomes an inspirational touchstone. We witness Alex Owens (Jennifer Beals), initially a steelworker by day and exotic dancer by night, finally auditioning for the prestigious Pittsburgh Conservatory of Dance and achieving her dreams.
The scene’s power stems from its deliberate build-up. Earlier in the film, Alex faces numerous setbacks – self-doubt, societal expectations, and the pressure of realizing her full potential. This creates a strong sense of underdog sympathy and investment in her journey. When she finally steps onto the stage, the audience is already rooting for her success.
The choreography itself is a significant factor. While Jennifer Beals performed some of the dance moves, a team of dancers contributed their unique styles, creating a vibrant and diverse performance. This blend of styles – ballet, jazz, breakdancing, and modern dance – mirrors Alex’s eclectic background and unconventional approach to artistry. The unpredictability and energy of the dance keeps the viewer engaged and reinforces the idea that Alex is breaking free from constraints and forging her own path.
Crucially, the music amplifies the emotional impact. “What a Feeling” is an anthem of self-belief and the joy of achieving goals. The lyrics, combined with Cara’s powerful vocals, create a synergistic effect that elevates the scene to a transcendent experience. The close-ups of Alex’s face, showcasing her determination and the sheer joy of performance, further connect the audience to her emotional journey.
Finally, the film’s use of slow motion and freeze frames at key moments, such as the iconic water pour, adds to the dramatic flair and allows the audience to savor the highlights of the performance. These visual cues emphasize the beauty and athleticism of the dance, solidifying its place in cinematic history.
The Enduring Legacy
The “What a Feeling” scene continues to inspire audiences decades after its release. Its enduring legacy can be attributed to its universal themes of perseverance, self-belief, and the pursuit of dreams. It resonates with anyone who has ever faced adversity and strived to overcome it.
The Power of Visual Storytelling
The scene is a prime example of the power of visual storytelling. It relies heavily on imagery and movement to convey emotion and narrative, rather than relying solely on dialogue. This makes it accessible to audiences across cultures and languages. The visual spectacle coupled with the powerful music creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Impact on Pop Culture
Flashdance and its iconic dance scene had a profound impact on pop culture. The film popularized the look of the 1980s, including leg warmers, off-the-shoulder tops, and the overall aesthetic of athletic-inspired fashion. The dance moves and music were widely imitated and parodied, further cementing the scene’s place in the cultural landscape.
The scene also inspired countless aspiring dancers and artists to pursue their dreams. It became a symbol of hope and possibility, demonstrating that anything is achievable with hard work and dedication. Its legacy continues to be felt in dance studios, art schools, and performance venues around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What makes the music in the “What a Feeling” scene so effective?
The music, “What a Feeling” by Irene Cara, is effective because it’s optimistic, energetic, and emotionally resonant. Its lyrics explicitly describe the feeling of achieving a dream, perfectly complementing the visual narrative of the scene. The synth-heavy sound is also characteristic of the 1980s, contributing to the scene’s nostalgia and iconic status.
FAQ 2: Who were the dancers involved in creating the final “What a Feeling” performance?
While Jennifer Beals starred in the film, several dancers contributed to the final performance. Marine Jahan was the principal dance double for Beals. However, other dancers like Sharon Shapiro and Crazy Legs also performed specific moves, showcasing diverse dance styles within the sequence. This collaborative effort added to the richness and complexity of the dance.
FAQ 3: What is the significance of the water pouring scene during the performance?
The water pouring scene is highly symbolic. It represents Alex breaking free from constraints and embracing her true self. It’s also a visually stunning moment that adds to the drama and intensity of the performance, emphasizing the physical exertion and passion involved in dance.
FAQ 4: How did the “What a Feeling” scene impact dance culture?
The scene popularized and democratized dance, making it more accessible and appealing to a wider audience. It showcased a blend of different dance styles, inspiring many to explore various forms of dance and encouraging a more eclectic and inclusive approach to choreography.
FAQ 5: Was the film Flashdance controversial at the time of its release?
Yes, Flashdance received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised its visual style and music, while others criticized its perceived lack of substance and its reliance on clichés. Its depiction of Alex’s life as a steelworker and exotic dancer also generated debate.
FAQ 6: Beyond the dance, what is the central message of the “What a Feeling” scene?
The central message transcends the dance itself; it’s about believing in yourself, overcoming obstacles, and relentlessly pursuing your passions, regardless of societal expectations or personal doubts. It embodies the spirit of the American Dream and the possibility of achieving greatness through hard work and determination.
FAQ 7: What camera techniques are used to enhance the emotional impact of the scene?
Adrian Lyne uses various camera techniques to enhance the emotional impact. These include close-ups of Alex’s face to capture her emotions, slow-motion shots to emphasize key moments, and dynamic camera angles to create a sense of energy and movement. The quick cuts and montage style editing also contribute to the scene’s overall excitement.
FAQ 8: How does the editing contribute to the scene’s overall impact?
The editing is crucial in building tension and creating a sense of urgency. Quick cuts and fast-paced editing mirror the energy of the dance, while slower, more deliberate edits allow the audience to savor key moments. The juxtaposition of different shots – close-ups, wide shots, and point-of-view shots – creates a dynamic and engaging viewing experience.
FAQ 9: How does the scene fit into the overall narrative arc of Flashdance?
The scene serves as the climactic culmination of Alex’s journey. It represents the moment when she finally overcomes her self-doubt and societal pressures to achieve her dream of becoming a professional dancer. It provides a satisfying resolution to her character arc and reinforces the film’s message of hope and perseverance.
FAQ 10: Are there any hidden details or easter eggs in the “What a Feeling” scene?
While there aren’t overt “easter eggs,” the scene is rich in symbolic details. The inclusion of diverse dance styles can be seen as a reflection of the film’s celebration of individuality and nonconformity. The setting itself, a formal audition, contrasts with Alex’s informal background, further emphasizing her unique journey.
FAQ 11: How does the “What a Feeling” scene compare to other iconic dance scenes in film history?
The “What a Feeling” scene stands out due to its blend of athleticism, emotion, and aspirational narrative. While other iconic dance scenes may focus on technical skill or artistic expression, Flashdance emphasizes the human element and the personal journey of the dancer. This makes it particularly relatable and inspiring to a wide audience.
FAQ 12: Why is it crucial for the movie’s success that we see Alex succeed in the “What a Feeling” scene?
The success of the scene directly ties into the emotional investment the audience has in Alex’s character. The entire film builds toward this moment; witnessing her achieve her dream is crucial for delivering a satisfying and uplifting resolution. Failing to show her succeed would undercut the film’s core message and leave the audience feeling disappointed and unfulfilled. The scene provides validation and hope to viewers who are themselves pursuing dreams, making it a powerful and memorable cinematic moment.