Dirty Dancing: The Phenomenon on SBS explores why the 1987 film remains a popular favourite, looking beyond its romance to the people, politics and creative risks behind the hit.
The documentary examines the film’s place in pop culture and its feminist and political dimensions. It also considers how a modestly budgeted release became an enduring global success.
With its music, dance scenes and central relationship, Dirty Dancing has held an unusual place in movie memory for generations of viewers. This programme looks at how that connection was made and why it has lasted.
The story brings the film’s cultural afterlife into focus while returning to the era that inspired it.
Dirty Dancing: The Phenomenon premieres Wednesday 16 September at 7.30pm on SBS and SBS On Demand.
For more free-to-air highlights, visit TV Central’s SBS section. Stream via SBS On Demand.
