Explained Season 3 Episode 11 Dance Crazes

Explained is a documentary series on Netflix that explores a wide range of topics through expert interviews, footage, and animation. In season 3, episode 11, titled "Dance Crazes," the show delves into the cultural phenomena of popular dance crazes throughout history.

The episode begins by discussing the origins of dance, dating back to ancient times when dance was used for religious and ceremonial purposes. As music and dance evolved over time, new dances emerged that became popular among different social groups. From the waltz to the tango, the show explores how these dances transcended borders and became part of global culture.

The heart of the episode revolves around dance crazes, which are often sparked by a particular song and catchy dance moves that capture the public's imagination. The episode traces the history of dance crazes from the 1960s to the present day, with a focus on a few of the most famous examples.

One of the first dance crazes explored is "The Twist," which originated in the early 1960s and was popularized by Chubby Checker's hit song of the same name. The episode explores how the dance's suggestive moves caused controversy at the time but also helped break down racial barriers on the dance floor.

The episode also covers the rise of the disco era and the phenomenon of "Saturday Night Fever," which catapulted John Travolta to stardom and made the hustle a global dance craze. The episode explores how disco's popularity was closely tied to the LGBTQ community and how this vibrant subculture was tragically cut short by the AIDS epidemic.

Moving forward in time, the episode explores the cultural impact of "The Macarena," a massive hit in the 1990s that spawned a dance craze that swept across the world. The episode looks at how the song and dance came to symbolize a cultural moment and how it remains a touchstone for many people.

The episode also highlights the current era of dance crazes, from the "Cupid Shuffle" to the "Floss Dance," which have taken over social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram and become ubiquitous in popular culture. The episode explores how these dances can bring people together across generations and cultural divides and carry significance beyond just entertainment.

Throughout the episode, expert interviews add insights into the history, psychology, and cultural significance of dance crazes. Dancers, choreographers, and music historians discuss the power of music and movement to express joy, release emotions, and inspire social change. Expert soundbites are mixed with archival footage and vibrant animation, making for a visually stunning and engaging viewing experience.

Overall, "Dance Crazes" is an entertaining and thought-provoking episode that sheds light on the cultural significance of dance and the ways in which popular movements can shape our collective consciousness. The episode encourages viewers to consider the ways in which dance and music can bring people together and spark movements that transcend borders and boundaries, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the power of popular culture.