Mastering the Filmore: A Funky Dance Move That Oozes Style

Introduction

The Filmore is a captivating dance move that belongs to the funk style family, specifically within the realm of popping and boogaloo. This dynamic and fluid movement showcases the dancer's ability to control their body with precision and grace. The Filmore combines elements of isolation, waves, and subtle popping techniques to create a mesmerizing visual effect. Originating from the rich tapestry of funk dance styles, the Filmore has become a staple in many dancers' repertoires, adding a touch of smooth, controlled movement to their performances.

Video Demonstration

Dance History

The Filmore, like many funk style dance moves, emerged from the vibrant dance scene of California in the 1970s. It is closely associated with the development of boogaloo and popping, which were created by African Americans in California during this period. The Filmore is named after the Fillmore district in San Francisco, a historically significant neighborhood known for its rich musical and cultural heritage. While the exact creator of the Filmore move is not definitively known, it evolved alongside other funk styles as dancers experimented with new ways to express themselves to funk music.

Step By Step Instruction

Start in a relaxed standing position with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Initiate a subtle wave-like motion starting from your chest.
Allow the wave to flow through your body, moving down to your hips.
As the wave reaches your hips, create a circular motion with your pelvis.
Simultaneously, incorporate a slight popping action in your chest and shoulders.
Let the wave continue down to your knees, creating a slight bend.
Finish the move by allowing the wave to travel back up your body.
Repeat the sequence, focusing on smooth transitions and controlled movements.

Tips For Learning

Practice isolating different body parts to improve control and precision.
Focus on creating a smooth, continuous flow throughout the entire movement.
Incorporate subtle pops and hits to add texture to the wave-like motion.
Use a mirror to observe and refine your technique.
Start slowly and gradually increase speed as you become more comfortable with the move.
Listen to funk music to internalize the rhythm and feel of the Filmore.

Conclusion

The Filmore is a testament to the creativity and innovation of funk style dancers. By mastering this move, dancers can add a touch of smooth, controlled movement to their repertoire, enhancing their overall performance and style. As with all funk style moves, the key to executing the Filmore lies in finding the perfect balance between fluidity and control, allowing the dancer to express themselves through the intricate interplay of waves, isolations, and subtle pops.

More Funk Style Dance Moves

If you liked the Filmore, these moves share the same blend of wave technique, body isolation, and boogaloo-rooted full-body flow:

The Boogaloo: Mastering the Funky Oakland Street Dance — The Filmore is named after a San Francisco neighborhood and grew directly out of the boogaloo tradition — learning the source style will deepen your understanding of where the Filmore's rolling mechanics come from.
Mastering the Art of Waving: A Fluid Funk Style Dance Move — The Filmore is initiated by a wave through the chest and hips; drilling isolated arm and body waves separately will make the Filmore's opening motion much cleaner.
Mastering the Snaking Move: Fluid Funk Body Control — Snaking runs a wave from head to toe using the same sequential chest-to-hip-to-knee progression the Filmore uses — practicing both develops the spinal and torso control the Filmore demands.
Mastering the Sleepy Style: Laid-Back Funk Dance Move — Both the Filmore and Sleepy Style emphasize relaxed, continuous body motion over explosive hits — pairing them gives you a smooth, groove-heavy set that contrasts well with sharper moves.