Last week, I was able to spot an original video CD copy of the 1987 contemporary classic Dirty Dancing, my all-time favorite dance movie.

Truth to tell, it was this very film that spurred me to learn ballroom dancing in the first place. Thus, at a very tender age, I began to teach myself “show” mambo, the more flamboyant Latin dancing style displayed by Patrick Swayze, Jennifer Grey and Cynthia Rhodes in several numbers of the movie.

Now showing in our local cinemas is Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights, supposedly the sequel to Dirty Dancing.

However, aside from the title and the plot involving a rich, sheltered girl meeting a poor, worldly boy who teaches her dance and love, I see no reason why this film could even be dubbed as Dirty Dancing 2. Some things are better off left alone.

For anyone who wants a sizzling dance movie with a strong Latin groove, I highly recommend Dance With Me.

It may not be as good, hot and memorable as the first Dirty Dancing, but the dance numbers are breathtaking and fiercely realistic. The professional Latin dance circuit had never looked so challenging and glamorous.

Leads Vanessa L. Williams and Chayanne had really gotten serious about their ballroom mettle, and this was exhibited clearly and impressively. Not to mention that the film’s soundtrack is utterly booty-shaking and hot as the spiciest salsa!

Below is Dirty Dancing’s summary from Amazon.com:

“No one puts Baby in a corner!”

Frances “Baby” Houseman (Jennifer Grey) has been vacationing in the Catskills with her family for many years. Uneventfully.

One summer, she falls under the sway (as it were) of dance instructor Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze). Baby is a pampered pup, but Johnny is a man of the world.

Baby’s father, Jake (Jerry Orbach), can’t see the basic decency in greaser Johnny that she can. It should come as no surprise to find that Baby, who can be as immature as her name, learns more about love and life – and dancing – from free-spirited Johnny than traditionalist Jake.

Dirty Dancing spawned two successful soundtracks, a short-lived TV series, and a stage musical. It may be predictable, but Grey and Swayze have chemistry, charisma, and all the right moves.