Twist (1992)

In the monochrome landscapes of mid-century Middle America, dance was synonymous with traditional ballroom; a rigid waltz of preordained moves, more akin to a technical drill than an emotive expression. Yet, a restless white youth began to cast their eyes towards the rhythmic dynamism of the black community and their bluesy music, sparking a desire for a fresh, liberating dance form. This burning aspiration found its conduit in the transformative power of rock and roll, a genre initially maligned by society as Satanic or Communist, yet it soon ignited a rebellious flame that spread among the younger generation. The potent fusion of rock and roll with dance was broadcast to American youth via Bandstand (1952), a show that dictated the era's trends. Yet, the dance routines televised were often pale imitations of black American moves, sterilized of the essential hip movement, creating a jarring disconnect. This chasm was filled with the advent of "The Twist", a dance that not only redefined hip movement but also upended the traditional reliance on a dance partner's moves, bringing an unparalleled sense of individualistic freedom. Despite facing a volley of criticism, The Twist transcended racial, generational, and socioeconomic boundaries, evolving from a mere song and dance into a cultural phenomenon, a prized commodity. The dance's success sparked a frantic hunt for the next big sensation, a quest that, in the end, proved elusive. "Twist" (1992) is an exploration of this dance revolution, a journey through a pivotal juncture in America's dance and music history.

Twist is a documentary movie featuring Marshall McLuhan and directed by Ron Mann.

It is possible to buy Twist on Apple TV.