Directed by Masayuki Suo

Writing credits: Masayuki Suo

MPAA: Rated PG-13 for mild language.

Runtime: 136 / Argentina:115 / Germany:119 / Netherlands:118 / USA:118 minutes

Language: Japanese

Country: Japan

Certification: Argentina:Atp / Chile:TE / Finland:S / Germany:U (bw) / Portugal:M/12 / Singapore:PG / Spain:T / Sweden:7 / UK:PG / USA:PG-13
 
 
 

He's an overworked accountant. She's an accomplished dancer. Passion is about to find two unlikely partners.  Shohei Sugiyama has attained all that he has wanted in life. But he is still depressed and unhappy.  One day, he gathers up the courage to sign up for dancing lessons. He hopes they will rid his depression and help him get his life back together.
 
 

From Leonard Maltin's Movie & Video Guide:
Beautifully realized film of middle-aged businessman (Yakusho), who secretly yearns to break out of the rigid conformity of his daily life, encountering the world of ballroom dance. Deliberately paced and laced with humor, with a game cast. Ballerina-turned-actress Kusakari matchesYakusho's fine performance. Written by the director. Widescreen.  ***½

Some things to think about while you watch the film (will make great content for movie quiz):
 

• Why was Mr. Sugiyama so secretive about taking dance lessons?
• Describe the progression of Mr. Sugiyama’s relationship with his wife throughout the film.  How do Japanese relationships differ from that of the U.S.?
• Ballroom dancing is much more popular in the U.S. than in Japan.  Why is this so?
• Japanese city life was shown in the film.  Was it similar to the U.S?  How was it unique?  Describe the various forms of transportation that Mr. Sugiyama uses in the film.
• Why does Mr. Sugiyama continue to take dance lessons after Mai warns him that he better not be taking lessons to get to her?
• Describe Mr. Sugiyama’s house, and listen close for references to it. How much do you think its worth, and how is it a status symbol?
• Describe differences between Mr. Sugiyama’s work life, home life and dance life.  How does he react when he finds out that his co-worker Mr. Aoki dances?  How does Mr. Aoki react to being found out?

Some additional links to consider:

Short interview with the director, Masayuki Suo: Shall We Dance director breaks down barriers with Cultural two-step

Some more good insights: All the right moves from Daily Mail & Guardian

Roger Ebert’s review of the film in the Chicago Sun Times

Salt Lake City Weekly Review

Aspects of Japanese Culture and Society, from the International Society for Educational Information