The upcoming remake of ‘Dirty Dancing’ has me reflecting on my own age and experiences. Last summer, while helping my brother and stepdad move, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of my childhood memories. Among the dusty boxes filled with old school projects and forgotten letters, I discovered a VHS tape of ‘Dirty Dancing.’
“Look what I found!” I said, holding it triumphantly.
“That’s mine!” my younger sibling shot back.
“Remember? I watched it every day after school; you were too little to appreciate it.”
“Well, you lost interest, and then I did too,” she replied.
After some sibling negotiation, I managed to sneak it back home (big sister wins again), though she can borrow it whenever she likes. My affection for this film runs deep—Baby’s iconic cutoff shorts, the thrilling summer nights spent dancing, and the unforgettable romance between Baby and Johnny. With its captivating soundtrack, it remains a beloved classic, especially for those of us who grew up in the ’80s.
The nostalgia surrounding the film has intensified since the passing of Patrick Swayze, who embodied the strong and charismatic Johnny. The news of a remake initially sparked excitement in me, as it presented an opportunity to revisit cherished memories. However, as I delved deeper into the details, the realization of my age began to settle in.
The cast features Abigail Breslin as Baby, someone I vaguely recognize from ‘Little Miss Sunshine,’ and a host of other actors I don’t know. While Colt Prattes, who will portray Johnny, looks promising, it’s tough to envision anyone filling Swayze’s shoes. I do recognize Debra Messing from ‘Will & Grace,’ but guess what? She’s playing the mom, which hits a little too close to home. Before I know it, my own child will be a teenager, and I’ll find myself in the role of Mrs. Houseman, wondering about my kid’s whereabouts and hoping they’re not engaging in activities akin to dirty dancing.
The remake is slated to air on ABC, and it’s heartening to see made-for-TV movies still exist. Yet, with my kids’ bedtime being a firm commitment, I’m left pondering when I’ll actually watch it. The film is set to run for three hours—where do working parents like me find the time?
Ultimately, I’ve come to terms with the fact that this remake is designed for a younger audience. While it is delightful to think future generations will discover this classic, it also serves as a reminder of the passage of time. The original ‘Dirty Dancing’ debuted in 1987, which means next year will mark its 30th anniversary. I can no longer deny that I’m aging, despite feeling like a child just yesterday.
I look forward to watching the new version, but I also plan to revisit my old VHS copy, snuggling with my spouse after the kids are asleep, and reliving those fond memories of my youth. Yes, we still have a VHS player and a collection of tapes—evidence of my age, but I embrace it.
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In summary, the ‘Dirty Dancing’ remake prompts reflections on nostalgia, the passage of time, and the inevitable changes in our lives. While I’m eager to see how this new version unfolds, I will cherish the memories associated with the original.
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