4 Street-Dance Films to Watch for a Burst of Inspiration
The beauty of a dance film is its ability to transport you within minutes. As creatives continue to push the boundaries of movement using video, there has never been a better time to seek out onscreen artistry. Whether you’re on the couch, on the subway, or stretching in the studio, inspiration is a click away—no matter your style.
From hip hop to jookin and more, here are four standout films from a diverse mix of artists that have spotlighted street dance in recent years.
“We The People”
This fast-paced, ultraprecise collage of freestyle and choreography explores the relationship between individuality and collectivism within dance. Created by Marlee Hightower and featuring dancers from her Motiv Crew, “We The People” showcases street-style dance with picture-perfect formations, razor-sharp transitions, and unique musicality. Watch closely as it switches between battle formats and group formations.
“Nobody Knows”
Created by director David Javier and Memphis jookin star Lil Buck, “Nobody Knows” explores Buck’s experiences as a Black man in the U.S. It takes place in a sunlit church, and as Buck dances among the pews with effortless fluidity, choir members sing the stirring, soulful “Nobody Knows,” by Pastor TL. Barrett & The Youth For Christ Choir. Cathartic, vulnerable, and at times haunting, “Nobody Knows” also includes a short, powerful voiceover by Buck.
“Breaking the Loop”
This candid documentary-style film by Red Bull follows breaker Victor Montalvo as he prepares to compete in the first-ever Olympic breaking event in 2024. Chock-full of interviews with world-renowned dancers, “Breaking the Loop”sets the stage—and the stakes—for Montalvo’s Olympic debut. Spotlighting discipline, ambition, and joy, the film delves into the realities of professional breaking and the importance of street-dance culture. (It’s especially moving to watch this post-Olympics, since Montalvo earned a bronze medal!)
“Matters of Movement”
Eight world-class street dancers share the screen in this rhythmic, futuristic work created by multidisciplinary artist Jess Hu. Playing with speed, lighting, and sound, the film creates an intense, out-of-time experience for viewers. As much a feat of videography as it is dance, “Matters of Movement” finds a common thread among a diverse group of artists, featuring Samuel “Hooliboy” Kyei (Afrofusion), Toyin Sogunro (house), Darren “Outrage” King (krump), James “Lord Finesse” Thomas (Chicago footwork), Liliana “Lily” Frias (waacking), Inyoung “Dassy” Lee (popping), Nicholas “Slick” Stewart (flexing) and Ruthie Fantaye (hip hop).
