Jan and I watched Mad Hot Ballroom tonight, and I highly recommend that everyone else do the same. I tend to enjoy documentaries-- it's probably because I can convince myself that they make me smarter-- and this one is wonderful. It tells the story of how a few NYC elementary schools introduce ballroom dancing as an extracurricular activity, and the impact dancing has on the students. First of all, most of kids featured in the movie are really charming and funny. There's definitely a sense of Kids Say the Darnedest Things, but less contrived. Second, I love that this really simple idea had such positive effects. It's really inspiring. (I hate that word but it is appropriate.) Third, the story is told really well-- it's lighthearted and sweet, but it touches upon some tougher issues. For real, each time I've seen the movie, it always makes me want to do Teach for America in the South Bronx or Queens, or maybe befriend some Dominican people. Either one sounds rewarding. One of my favorite scenes is when a few kids in the dance program are being interviewed about their recent third-place finish at a competition. One of the girls begins her response with, "I'm indignant." Preach, little sister.
It's dawning on me how much I need to take care of before school begins on Monday. I think it was a little ambitious of me accept hours at work every day this week. I work Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and then I have to leave on Saturday so that I can get settled by Sunday night. And I have to pack all of my stuff in that time, too. And buy more socks and undersquares. And locate a space heater. Yeah-- good night.
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