Masayuki Suo’s Shall We Dance? is one of those rare cinematic gems that manages to be both deeply cultural and universally resonant. Its recent 4K restoration is a welcome gift to cinephiles, allowing a whole new generation to appreciate the film’s visual warmth and nuanced storytelling. The film, originally released in 1996, has been making the rounds again at international festivals thanks to its re-release and US distribution by Film Movement, a champion of world cinema.

Shall We Dance? tells the story of a middle-aged salaryman who secretly takes up ballroom dancing to escape the monotony of his everyday life. What unfolds is a tender, humorous, and ultimately uplifting journey of self-discovery. The film’s quiet charm lies in how it treats its niche subject — ballroom dancing — not as an oddity, but as a liberating force that brings dignity and joy to its characters.

At the heart of the film are two stunning performances. Kōji Yakusho, in one of his most beloved roles, brings a gentle gravity and subtle emotional depth to Sugiyama, making his transformation feel authentic and deeply moving. Naoto Takenaka, as his eccentric and flamboyant co-worker and fellow dancer, nearly steals the show — his blend of comic timing and pathos adds another layer to the film’s emotional palette. Together, they create a world where the simple act of dancing becomes a quiet act of resistance and personal freedom.

The film’s unexpected success in Japan (where ballroom dancing was often seen as frivolous or even shameful) led to a well-known US remake in 2004, starring Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez. While the Hollywood version softened some of the cultural subtleties, it retained the heart of Suo’s original — the idea that it’s never too late to find passion in life.

In its restored form, Shall We Dance? shines brighter than ever. It’s a film that dances gently but confidently through themes of repression, joy, and the quiet rebellion of personal fulfillment. Both modest and magnificent, it’s a reminder that sometimes, the smallest steps — taken on a dance floor — can lead to the biggest changes in life.