In an exciting recognition of cinematic history, “Dirty Dancing”, along with another pivotal 1980s film, “Beverly Hills Cop”, has been inducted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress. The announcement was made on Tuesday, showcasing a total of 25 films that highlight over a century of filmmaking excellence.
Released in 1987, “Dirty Dancing” captivated audiences with the electric on-screen chemistry between Patrick Swayze as Johnny Castle and Jennifer Grey as Frances “Baby” Houseman. The film not only offered entertainment but also addressed significant social themes such as abortion, class disparities, and antisemitism. The famous line, “Nobody puts Baby in a corner,” leads to the unforgettable final dance where Swayze and Grey perform to the iconic song “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.”
On the other hand, “Beverly Hills Cop,” launched in 1984, marked Eddie Murphy’s first movie to be recognized in the registry. This film played a crucial role in catapulting Murphy to superstardom and established action comedies as a reliable box office success throughout the ensuing decade.
Since 1988, the Librarian of Congress has been meticulously selecting films for preservation based on their cultural, historical, or aesthetic significance. The latest additions have now brought the total number of films in the registry to 900. Turner Classic Movies will pay tribute to these new honorees through a special television program airing on Wednesday, featuring selections from the class of 2024.
Among the honored films, the oldest is “Annabelle Serpentine Dance” from 1895, a short clip featuring the provocative dance of Annabelle Moore, which was criticized at the time for its risqué nature. The most recent induction is the critically acclaimed “The Social Network” directed by David Fincher, which premiered in 2010.
Highlighted films in this year’s registry include:
“We Are The Champions of the Yankees” (1942): This film set the standard for modern sports dramas, featuring Gary Cooper in the role of Lou Gehrig, famously delivering the heartfelt line, “Today I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the Earth.”
“The Miracle Worker” (1962): This film earned Anne Bancroft an Oscar for her portrayal of Anne Sullivan, while 16-year-old Patty Duke garnered one as well for her role as Helen Keller in this powerful narrative directed by Arthur Penn.
“Up in Smoke” (1978): Marking the debut of comedic duo Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong, this film laid the groundwork for the stoner genre and normalized weed culture within the mainstream context. Marin, known for his role in “Spy Kids” as well, represents the diversity present among this year’s inductees.
“Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan” (1982): The second installment of the original “Star Trek” series presented one of cinema’s most notable villains, portrayed by Ricardo Montalban, proving that the adventures of Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock could resonate thrillingly with audiences.
“Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt” (1989): This impactful documentary detailing the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt won an Oscar and stood as a poignant testimony to the effects of the AIDS epidemic.
“My Own Private Idaho” (1991): Esteemed director Gus Van Sant crafted this film featuring a noteworthy performance by River Phoenix, who passed away just a year later at the young age of 23.
“American Me” (1992): Edward James Olmos not only starred but also made his directorial debut with this narrative focusing on the experiences of Chicano gang life in Los Angeles and the harsh realities faced by its protagonist.
“No Country for Old Men” (2007): Directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, this adaptation of Cormac McCarthy’s work received significant Oscar recognition, including accolades for best picture, best director, and best adapted screenplay, along with a best supporting actor win for Javier Bardem portraying an unforgettable antagonist.
Complete list of films entering the National Film Registry in 2024:
“Annabelle Serpentine Dance” (1895)
“KoKo’s Earth Control” (1928)
“Angels with Dirty Faces” (1938)
“Pride of the Yankees” (1942)
“Invaders from Mars” (1953)
“The Miracle Worker” (1962)
“The Chelsea Girls” (1966)
“Ganja and Hess” (1973)
“Texas Chainsaw Massacre” (1974)
“Uptown Saturday Night” (1974)
“Zora Lathan Student Films” (1975-76)
“Up in Smoke” (1978)
“Will” (1981)
“Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan” (1982)
“Beverly Hills Cop” (1984)
“Dirty Dancing” (1987)
“Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt” (1989)
“Powwow Highway” (1989)
“My Own Private Idaho” (1991)
“American Me” (1992)
“Mi Familia” (1995)
“Compensation” (1999)
“Spy Kids” (2001)
“No Country for Old Men” (2007)
“The Social Network” (2010)
This information clarifies that the announcements were indeed made on Tuesday.
