IMDb 6.2 2001 HD

Save the Last Dance

Save the Last Dance

2001
Drama Family Music Romance
113 min PG-13 USA
6.534 / 10
6.2 IMDB

After the death of her mother, Sara moves to the South Side of Chicago to live with her father and gets transferred to a majority-black school. Her life…

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director Thomas Carter / Linda Leifer / Nicole Cummins-Rubio / Jon Mallard
Starring
Julia Stiles / Sean Patrick Thomas / Kerry Washington / Fredro Starr / Terry Kinney / Bianca Lawson / Vince Green / Garland Whitt

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

heartfelt predictable energetic emotional relatable poignant charming earnest dramatic uplifting formulaic compelling

Reviews

P
Penelope Hayes
May 10, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

A film that understands the power of movement to express what words cannot, 'Save the Last Dance' is a heartfelt drama anchored by a strong central performance from Julia Stiles. Her portrayal of Sara, a young dancer whose…

J
Julian Croft
May 10, 2026
2.5 / 5
2.5

While 'Save the Last Dance' boasts an attractive lead in Julia Stiles and a premise that promises a cross-pollination of dance worlds, it ultimately feels somewhat hollow. The film attempts to tackle serious themes of loss and racial…

I
Isabelle Dubois
May 10, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

'Save the Last Dance' offers a vibrant and emotionally resonant exploration of identity and resilience, set against the dynamic backdrop of Chicago. Julia Stiles is compelling as Sara, imbuing her character with vulnerability and determination. The film masterfully…

M
Marcus Bellweather
May 10, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

This early 2000s flick aims for a poignant coming-of-age story, centred on a young woman grappling with loss and finding solace in an unexpected milieu. Julia Stiles delivers a committed performance as Sara, grounding the film with her…

E
Eleanor Vance
May 10, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

A serviceable teen drama that hinges on the charisma of its leads, 'Save the Last Dance' attempts to blend balletic grace with urban hip-hop sensibilities. Julia Stiles capably navigates Sara's journey from grief-stricken transplant to a young woman…

FAQs

Derek plays a pivotal role in Sara's personal and artistic journey throughout 'Save the Last Dance'. He not only becomes a friend but also a mentor figure, particularly in the realm of dance. By introducing Sara to different styles and encouraging her to express herself through movement in new ways, Derek helps her to process her grief and regain her confidence. Their collaboration and growing connection highlight the positive impact of supportive relationships in overcoming adversity and rediscovering one's path.