Leave it on the floor (2011)

Director: Sheldon Larry

Starring: Ephraim Sykes, Andre Myers, Phillip Evelyn

Set in the ballroom world originally memorialized by the documentary Paris Is Burning, Leave It on the Floor is an original musical set in the scene in Los Angeles 2011.

This comedy drama musical about young love and ambition was indeed a wonderful surprise. The inexperienced cast is very talented and lent credibility to the great blend of humor and drama – neither of which became overbearing at any point in the film. Barbie-Q was especially good as house Mama Queen Latina. The love triangle between Bradley, Carter and Princess Eminence was well set up, although I would have preferred Bradley and Carter to meet under different circumstances.

For a musical, the choreography and dance routines are quite standard, but it was very entertaining and the music and costumes are fantastic. The film’s Sound Design was also very good, as well as the cinematography. The dialogue and lyrics are witty and well crafted and will no doubt become legendary in everyday speech. In general, this is a musical treat to treasure for years to come.

‘Leave it on the Floor’ won the Best Cinematography Award.