Really Surprised!

Most undeservingly overhyped movie of all time??

All of these films share one commonality, that being a kind of emotional center that humanizes a cast of monsters.

Close shines in drama with strong language, adult themes.

A real shame that Paramount Films discarded this film during its 1991 release. It is excellent and sports worthy performances by Liza Minnelli, a lady who leads a group of people who are unsure about themselves to a dancing class. Then, their opportunity strikes-they are asked to perform for a Children's Benefit Performance. It is at this time that all their personal problems become known.As stated the supporting performances are terrific. Jane Krakowski lights up the screen in her scene when she tells Minnelli that she sees her first patient die and the horrible comment made by a doctor that we needed the bed anyway.Bill Irwin is refreshing as the only guy in the ensemble whose wife left him. A loner and quiet man, he seeks solace in the dance group. Julie Walters is absolutely hysterical as the British lady, a cleanliness nut, who hides her tale of woe as well. Even Minnelli has her own story to tell. It's as if the dance floor provides an outlet for these people.Of course, we have a frumpy,but energetic Shelley Winters at the piano. After all, she was the only one to answer Minnelli's request for a piano player. Temperamental, she reminds Minnelli that between social security and her pension, she doesn't need this.All comes together in a fabulous ending-dance routine. You'll want to get up and cheer for the cast. This picture needed much more notoriety, it deserved it. It's really a winner.

There are movies they you just love.This is one of them, for me.Stupidly and ineptly "released" by Paramount Pictures in October 1991, "Stepping Out" is a movie that should have been a profound critical and commercial success. I'm not saying this film is anything more than it is. But "Rocky" and "Saturday Night Fever" mined this mother-lode with similar results. Alas, for "Stepping Out," the boxing and disco dancing flicks had savvy PR guys, and "Stepping Out" had--I dunno."Feel good" movie beyond completely applies to "Stepping Out." This film, properly marketed, would have rejuvenated Liza Minnelli's film career.And we would have had a wonderful Liza movie every few years or so, instead of--well, sequels.Anyone reading this thread, who was or is still working for Paramount and could explain how they dropped the ball on this film's release? I'd love details.UPDATE: I just stumbled upon an article about a theatre in Des Moines, the Varsity, that ran "Stepping Out" for a jaw-dropping TEN WEEKS. It was their Christmas release in 1991. The legendary theater owner, Bev Mahon, was undeterred about the unsuccessful platform release in October, and booked the movie anyway. He rewrote his own ad campaign (apparently he did this a LOT when he championed a movie underdog), and the movie was a big hit at this theatre. It would have run indefinitely (he ran "Doctor Zhivago" for 50 weeks in 1965), but Paramount wanted the theatre's print returned for another engagement. Since only 8 prints had been made of this film (what confidence, Paramount!), Bev Mahon had to comply, but since "Stepping Out" had been a bonafide smash at his theatre, Paramount did allow him to announce a final 2-week engagement. Nice story. Kind of vindicates Liza and her film and makes Paramount look even stupider than I thought they were back in 1991.

This movie wasn't meant to have deep meaning, it was meant to be enjoyed. This is the movie I plug in whenever I need a lift. Liza is thoroughly enjoyable. I never tire of watching her dance, and her voice is unbeatable, not to mention that she's a wonderful actress. The finale is great fun and shows Liza's unique style and pizazz -- there will always be only ONE Liza. I would recommend this movie to anyone who watches movies for the enjoyment of them, rather than expecting a movie to divulge the meaning of life.I was privileged to see Liza perform in person just a few days ago, and although she no longer dances, she still has the quality and power in her voice that never fails to thrill me. She was truly delightful with her humor, professionalism and graciousness.I love you Liza!!

Every now and then, "Stepping Out" touches down on some heartfelt emotions that most viewers will relate to; whether it's Liza Minnelli's jerk of a boyfriend, her loyalty to her tap dance students or the anxieties within the group, the script is surprisingly evocative once it gets down to the heart of the matter (after cutting through the crap). There's a lot of dross filtering through here, too many stumble-bums and pratfalls that I assume are there to get laughs, but Liza is solid (as usual) and does a good job at keeping the picture on some form of realistic ground. The dancers are colorful and interesting, but Shelley Winters as the pianist on social security has a tough time portraying a ridiculous warhorse in silly hats. **1/2 from ****