TAP HOP

Tap Hop highlights the evolution and enduring appeal of percussive dance. The film brings together the intricate, rhythmic footwork of 1940s tap, a cornerstone of early musical theatre and jazz, with the raw energy and groundbreaking athleticism of 1980s hip-hop. By contrasting these styles, it implicitly comments on cultural shifts, the democratisation of dance, and how innovation often builds upon established traditions. It’s a celebration of dance as a vibrant, evolving art form.

Information regarding specific Australian streaming availability for Tap Hop can be inconsistent due to the film's niche and experimental nature. It's advisable to check major Australian streaming platforms and specialised film archives. Given its unique archival splicing, it may also appear in curated festival programs or on platforms dedicated to avant-garde or experimental cinema. Keeping an eye on independent film distributors' announcements is also a good strategy.

Tap Hop defies easy categorisation. It's not a conventional documentary, nor is it a narrative feature film in the usual sense. Instead, it functions as a found footage collage, a creative remix that juxtaposes disparate archival materials to construct a novel viewing experience. By pitting vintage tap against early hip-hop, it explores themes of rhythm, legacy, and the universal language of dance across decades, offering a truly experimental approach to filmmaking.

The film pits two distinct, yet artistically linked, dance ensembles against each other. Representing the golden age of hip-hop are the renowned New York City Breakers, celebrated for their innovative moves and influence on street dance culture. Facing them are Tip Tap & Toe, a distinguished tap dance troupe from the 1940s, embodying the elegance and intricate footwork of that era. Their juxtaposition forms the core of Tap Hop's visual and rhythmic narrative.

Tap Hop is a unique cinematic experiment that stages an unexpected dance-off. It cleverly splices together archival footage from the 1942 musical comedy 'Pardon My Sarong' with excerpts from the 1986 TV series 'Graffiti Rock'. The result is a spirited, anachronistic competition between the iconic 1980s hip-hop crew, the New York City Breakers, and the seminal 1940s tap group, Tip Tap & Toe. It's a fascinating collision of eras and dance styles, offering a fresh perspective on rhythm and movement.