User reviews

Stepping Out is a gentle feel good musical comedy with plenty of dance numbers. It was supposed to mark a return to form for Liza Minnelli after years of drink and drugs issues.

Minnelli plays Mavis a one time professional dancer in a chorus line in New York who has moved to Buffalo. She starts a dance studio for beginners and ends up getting invited to put on a show for charity.

Her dance class are mainly female with just one guy (Bill Irwin) and range widely in age. Julie Walters plays a hygiene obsessed housewife, Shelly Winters is the temperamental pianist. Everyone has some side issues or problem but will these no hopers get their dance act together in time for the show is the essence of the story.

This is a sweet and enjoyable enough film. Its unpretentious fun, Minnelli does enough to show that in essence she has squandered her talent since her Oscar winning turn as Sally Bowles and there are enough familiar faces in the film to keep your feet tapping along.

Someone wrote that "Stepping Out" was mostly forgettable. I beg to differ. It is not really "mostly forgettable", just formulaic. BUT that is what I like about it. I like the old "Let's find a barn and put on a show" plots -- that's what I liked watching when I was growing up. So,"Stepping Out" is a great example of the genre. Liza shines -- good music, great dancing and seeing the incomparable Shelly Winters was a plus. Some of the supporting cast have moved up the ladder -- Jane Krakowski, Julie Walters, Bill Erwin, Sheila McCarthy, Andrea Martin, Robyn Stevan, Ellen Greene, Carol woods, Luke Reilly. I see their name in the credits and I remember what fun it is to watch "Stepping Out" again. It reminds me of the small dance studios all over the country. I should know -- I took a tap class at one.

Every now and then, "Stepping Out" touches down on some heartfelt emotions that most viewers will relate to; whether it's Liza Minnelli's jerk of a boyfriend, her loyalty to her tap dance students or the anxieties within the group, the script is surprisingly evocative once it gets down to the heart of the matter (after cutting through the crap). There's a lot of dross filtering through here, too many stumble-bums and pratfalls that I assume are there to get laughs, but Liza is solid (as usual) and does a good job at keeping the picture on some form of realistic ground. The dancers are colorful and interesting, but Shelley Winters as the pianist on social security has a tough time portraying a ridiculous warhorse in silly hats. **1/2 from ****

Often incorrectly classified as a musical, "Stepping Out" is actually a delightful comedy-drama with an excellent ensemble cast. British playwright Richard Harris has Americanized his script and added more detailed plot developments for this film version. It's suitable for the whole family, and definitely worth renting (some night when you don't feel like "Stepping Out"). Everyone is bound to have a favorite in the cast, whether it's Liza herself, veteran actress Shelley Winters, comedian Bill Irwin, or "Ally McBeal's" Jane Krakowski. All turn in hilariously touching performances -- and yes, there is a song-and-dance number at the end, for all you Liza fans! Once you've watched, you'll want everyone to see "Stepping Out"!

This movie wasn't meant to have deep meaning, it was meant to be enjoyed. This is the movie I plug in whenever I need a lift. Liza is thoroughly enjoyable. I never tire of watching her dance, and her voice is unbeatable, not to mention that she's a wonderful actress. The finale is great fun and shows Liza's unique style and pizazz -- there will always be only ONE Liza. I would recommend this movie to anyone who watches movies for the enjoyment of them, rather than expecting a movie to divulge the meaning of life.

I was privileged to see Liza perform in person just a few days ago, and although she no longer dances, she still has the quality and power in her voice that never fails to thrill me. She was truly delightful with her humor, professionalism and graciousness.

I love you Liza!!

I honestly have to say that this is just about the worst movie I've ever seen. Oh, I suppose there was a B-level horror flick that MIGHT have been more awful...but at least THOSE films don't try and coast to oblivion on the wings of people of Minelli and Winters' status.

There is not a single person in this film that you believe or care abut for a second, specifically since they are cardboard clichés from every good film ever made. Totally predictable, lacking in charm, verve, innovation, wit or originality ... it doesn't even have the sense to be a parody.

I can't imagine how anyone on this site could have given it more than 3...the fact that there are only about 400 people who voted for it and around 18 people who bothered to make a comment shows you just how much of a flop this film is. Out of respect for those who wrote something nice here, I can only suppose that they are all related in some way or another to people who made or acted in this truly awful film. Someone called this "a bit of fluff"; more like a hairball...

Lewis Gilbert finds more magic with Julie Walters who is brilliant in her bit. Liza Minelli is terrific and everybody is having a grand old time in one of the best movies nobody's ever heard of. This is by no means a great or important film, but it is marvelously enjoyable entertainment from beginning to end in a true ensemble piece. If you are in the video store and just want to feel good, rent this film.

I gave this little movie a 6 out 10 possible points as it does have some great tapping dancing and there are some interesting moments when the plot comes together but unfortunately this doesn't happen enough nor can the dancing alone carry this picture completely. I would recommend watching Stepping Out at least once maybe even twice. Liza Minnelli is good, her supporting cast is fair, the usual assortment of different characters that have their ups and downs with each other and Liza. I liked the ending, which I won't give away but I'll bet you will be able to guess after the first 15 minutes of the film. Try watching this film it worth that if not a little more. It is hard to buy, not on DVD and I bought a used VHS, must be out of print.

Andy

Without doubt, one of the worst films ever made. Sluggish and without structure, tension or story, the film coasts on the thin premise of "putting together a show". Conflicts are resolved within two or three seconds of their inception and dialogue is random and incidental. Everything is put together in a slapdash order and often "Stepping Out" feels more like a deleted scenes reel than an actual movie. The film seems to exist merely as a showcase for gaudy and totally random Liza musical numbers. Shelly Winters can be seen in the far superior octo-epic "Tentacles", and the REAL Liza can be found in the Showtime release of "Queer Duck: The Movie".

Stepping Out isn't commonly spoken of nowadays, which is a shame as the film is a brilliant combination of Shelley Winters' comedy, Liza Minnelli's stamina and voice and superb performances by the 'Mavis Turner Tappers'. The story is inspiring as a group of amateur tap dancers try to make it to the top, and I watch it whenever I feel depressed - It raises your spirits and confidence.

Mavis (Liza Minnelli) was a chorus line dancer on Broadway. Just as she was on the verge of getting more prominent roles, she fell in love. Her full-of-himself boyfriend moved them to Buffalo, far from the theater scene. As a musician, he plays with a band in the local clubs, often with the very talented Mavis singing at his elbow. But, they are just two bit players, mostly because of his total lack of ambition. On the side, Mavis runs a dance studio for ordinary folks. In her classes, among others, are a lovely nurse, a librarian, a lady with an overbearing husband, a lady with an unemployed son, a bossy middle aged housewife (Julie Walters) and a lone, divorced, very shy male. The studio pianist is a strong-willed senior (Shelley Winters). One day, a woman who operates a more prominent dance school in Buffalo invites Mavis and her class to perform a number in a charity dance recital. Mavis accepts. But, as total amateurs, will Mavis' class look ridiculous in front of the other, younger groups? And, can Mavis weather a serious personal crisis, just as the class is working hard to get ready for the show? This is a wonderful film for several reasons. To begin, of course, the movie stars the very gifted Minnelli, who is a bonafide triple threat. She can sing, she can dance, and she can act, all in a glorious fashion. She makes Mavis a very memorable and wistful character. Next, the rest of the cast is outstanding, too, and not just Walters and Winters. Most of the dance class members are folks with no name recognition but who play their parts admirably. Then, too, the characters in the film are very human and sympathetic, making the audience cheer and weep for them as the events unfold. Also, the dance numbers are exciting, the costumes are very nice, and the setting in Buffalo quite charming, making for a fine looking film. If you love dancing and singing, this movie has the goods for you. But, even if you can't cut a rug, this film's story will warm your heart with its lovely, vibrant, and very touching tale.

Unless you're a huge Liza Minnelli fan, you might not be drawn to a movie whose synopsis is "Liza teaches a dance class to a group of beginners and they all learn about life." But take my unbiased recommendation: This movie is heartwarming, inspiring, and extremely fun. If you really hate dancing, then yes, shy away from it. But even if Cabaret isn't your favorite movie ever, there's a really good chance you'll love this one.

Based off a highly successful British play, the opening scene is a textbook "give everyone their entrance" scene which you can totally imagine on the stage. Meek Sheila McCarthy is extremely internal and clearly needs to "step out". Ellen Greene doesn't have much character development, but her fantastic figure is distracting enough to make the audience forget she even has a character. Andrea Martin is over-the-top in everything, even her sneezes. Bill Irwin is the only guy in the class, and he feels a bit awkward "stepping out" of his comfort zone, but he also enjoys getting a bit embarrassed. Jane Krakowski is a young nurse who's more sensitive than she lets on. Robyn Stevan wears great 1991 fashions, and she chews gum and flirts with every man in sight - despite having a husband. Carol Woods is frazzled and frumpy, but her enthusiasm makes up for her skills. Finally, there's a new student: Julie Walters. She is so adorable! I had no idea she could dance, but I also had no idea that she had such a fantastic figure when she was younger! In nearly every scene, she wears skintight bodysuits and prances around with her perfectly coiffed hair and sweet expressions. What an absolute doll! If you just think of her as Mrs. Weasley (like the rest of the under-40 crowd), you'll be shocked to see her in this.

A very enjoyable part of the movie is to see the journey of the students' talent. They start off the movie (and spend a great deal of it) as very backwards dancers. Their timing is off, they can't remember the steps, and one of them can't spin around in a circle without falling over. As you see from later on in the movie, they're all very accomplished dancers (or if you recognize names from the cast like Jane Krakowski and Ellen Greene, you already know they're dancers) so it's very cute to see them dummy-down their skills. And you can imagine how much fun they had pretending they couldn't dance!

Now for the teacher: Liza Minnelli really pulls out all the stops in this movie. You can see the many layers of emotion she feels while teaching beginners' tap when she was once a Broadway hopeful. She has dramatic acting when her personal life crumbles, and inspirational pizazz when getting her students prepared for a performance. Plus, she has a big solo number that really shows off her dancing talent!

Liza's faithful sidekick is the piano accompanist who is more than just a piano player (incidentally, sometimes she nods off during class). They have each other's backs and really care about each other outside of class. She's an older, frumpy, overweight lady whom I didn't even recognize until she started talking - but then again, I'm in the minority. Most people think of Shelley Winters as the frumpy frump in The Poseidon Adventure. I think of her as younger, slimmer, and far cuter, like in Frenchie and Playgirl. However, when you're a fan of someone, you're a fan no matter how old they get or how much weight they put on. I like Shelley, and I always will.

So, gather up a group of your girlfriends (and bring in one fellow for fun) and pop in Stepping Out for movie night. It's very enjoyable, and really makes you feel good. I'm looking forward to watching it time after time.

Paramount didn't know how to market this breezily enjoyable mixture of "Rocky" and "A Chorus Line," and it remains Liza Minnelli's last feature (to date--hope springs enternal). She's terrific as a never-was hoofer whipping a (mostly hilarious) group of would-be tap dancers into shape for a charity show. Nora Dunn steals her scenes as a haughty society dame, while there's also good moments from Andrea Martin, Ellen Greene and the show-stopping Julie Walters ("Canes to me, please, canes to me...."). Liza has a great production number at the end.

There are movies they you just love.

This is one of them, for me.

Stupidly and ineptly "released" by Paramount Pictures in October 1991, "Stepping Out" is a movie that should have been a profound critical and commercial success. I'm not saying this film is anything more than it is. But "Rocky" and "Saturday Night Fever" mined this mother-lode with similar results. Alas, for "Stepping Out," the boxing and disco dancing flicks had savvy PR guys, and "Stepping Out" had--I dunno.

"Feel good" movie beyond completely applies to "Stepping Out."

This film, properly marketed, would have rejuvenated Liza Minnelli's film career.

And we would have had a wonderful Liza movie every few years or so, instead of--well, sequels.

Anyone reading this thread, who was or is still working for Paramount and could explain how they dropped the ball on this film's release? I'd love details.

UPDATE: I just stumbled upon an article about a theatre in Des Moines, the Varsity, that ran "Stepping Out" for a jaw-dropping TEN WEEKS. It was their Christmas release in 1991. The legendary theater owner, Bev Mahon, was undeterred about the unsuccessful platform release in October, and booked the movie anyway. He rewrote his own ad campaign (apparently he did this a LOT when he championed a movie underdog), and the movie was a big hit at this theatre. It would have run indefinitely (he ran "Doctor Zhivago" for 50 weeks in 1965), but Paramount wanted the theatre's print returned for another engagement. Since only 8 prints had been made of this film (what confidence, Paramount!), Bev Mahon had to comply, but since "Stepping Out" had been a bonafide smash at his theatre, Paramount did allow him to announce a final 2-week engagement. Nice story. Kind of vindicates Liza and her film and makes Paramount look even stupider than I thought they were back in 1991.

of course 'Cabaret' can do the same

but anyway I really really liked this film a lot and it made me admire Liza because of its subversive message, its exhortation to the folks in the audience to get off of their arses and do something why don't you. Even though there is a big scene that goes to show that there is only one Liza - that amateurs will never replace professionals - yet the film demonstrates in an affecting way how amateur artists frequently bring something quite special to what they do - that sometimes at a most essential level the distinction between a "real" artist and someone just making art or trying to, if you want, is quite irrelevant.

I haven't really seen any of the old "let's put on a show" movies. I once remember seeing part of "strike up the band" and thought it was rather dada and anyway it didn't appear to be about amateurism, it appeared to be totally about Judy and Mickey, period. "Stepping Out" is not 2 young virtuosos hopped up on amphetamines on parade!

I just loved Liza's performance in this film, every little move she made, Liza, you touched me! Yes, she seemed very genuine I would characterize the performance as "wise". Mavis/Liza. Mavis!!? What of it!

Reading other reviews I'm realizing I saw this film so long ago. Heck I'd forgotten about groovy gal Shelley Winters and the other performers. I only remembered that Bill Irwin was in it. Oh Liza, I think it's time for me to watch this one again.

I could believe Davis Gest might have extorted sex from the bodyguard who is suing Liza only the bodyguard is probably so dumb he thought DG was Liza! As Gilda said, "Disaster to the wench!" but let's at least have him show his face in the newspapers. I really wonder, who's the victim here!?

I'm glad some people gave this movie the maximum stars they could.

A Well Written Story and A Great Cast.! An enjoyable Fun Movie for All The Family to Watch, and the Cast are fabulous and entertaining! With Liza Minnelli, Shelley Winters and Julie Walters, you simply can't go wrong..they make the movie a whole lot of fun to watch! This is one of Liza's better roles and she looks Great.! A well written Storyline and Superbly acted👌 A Most Recommended Watch..!!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

The very professional Lewis Gilbert made quite a few very watchable films, but looking down the list most of them I do not think will last the test of time. ' Cosh Boy ' which caused so much English outrage stands out for its slightly Camp fun, but the plodding ' Carve Her Name with Pride ' and many others will not. ' Stepping Out ' was a good attempt to make a retro musical and thanks to Liza Minnelli and to her re-working of this genre this film should last. She too had the same professionalism as Lewis Gilbert, but she had that extra something that no actor or director can ever buy and that is a touch of genius. I think it a pity that the film was so out of its time in 1991 and that it harked back to the sort of film made in the late 1940's, early 50's. Judy Garland herself made a similar film in 1950 called ' Summer Stock ' and then again that touch of genius was wasted on inferior material. ' Stepping Out ' is better than that because Garland looked genuinely tired in ' Summer Stock ' and Minnelli does not. She is beautiful, looking way younger than her years and with that enduring freshness should have gone on to make many other and better films. The dated scenario should not have prevented her, but maybe it did. Quite simply it was the film that looked worn out and not her. And yet despite these observations it is for a lot of people a film that brings back a lot of nostalgia and no doubt for those who treasure not only her but films like ' Summer Stock '. The cast around her is charming and the only actors who jarred on me were Julie Walters and her mannerisms and Shelley Winters giving a very static and morose performance. But Liza Minnelli earns the 9 and the only thing that prevents a 10 is the painting by numbers and far too sentimental direction. Minnelli seems to direct herself, and if that is true she showed just how great she is, and was, surpassing all of the conventional professionalism around her.

This must have been a left over script that Judy turned down, so they dusted it off and gave it to Liza instead. Typical Garland/Rooney story, where a dance troop decides to put on a show, in this case, for a charity. This movie isn't bad, but it gets off to a slow start, and finally becomes entertaining at the end. Of course there are a few dance numbers thrown in for Liza to demonstrate that she can still sing and dance in 1991! She looked too thin, and her complexion wasn't healthy looking. Knowing what we know now, you can probably guess what was up with her looks. The rest of the cast is okay, but I wouldn't want to spend any more time with them. The secondary players weren't that compelling, nor for that mater, was Liza's character.