32 Unexpected, But Amazing, Dance Sequences From Movies And TV Shows

Dance sequences in movies and TV shows can be remarkably effective, often appearing unexpectedly yet still captivating audiences. Surprisingly, many of the most iconic dance numbers in pop culture history are not from musicals. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of these beloved examples.

Napoleon Has “Canned Heat” (Napoleon Dynamite)

In my opinion, what truly captivated audiences in the 2004 film Napoleon Dynamite was the climactic dance scene. Desperate to assist his friend Pedro (Efren Ramirez) in winning the school presidency, our quirky protagonist showcases an extraordinary and enthusiastic dance routine spontaneously choreographed to Jamiroquai’s “Canned Heat.” This impromptu display of dance moves leaves his classmates thunderously applauding.

Nothing Suits Barney Like A Suit (How I Met Your Mother)

In the 100th episode of the popular TV sitcom, How I Met Your Mother, Barney Stinson (played by Neil Patrick Harris) ponders if he should abandon his suits completely to charm an appealing bartender who dislikes men in business clothing. He then envisions a grand musical performance expressing his affection for his attire titled “Nothing Suits Me Like a Suit.” This number is performed by the stylishly dressed rest of the cast.

Tom’s Dreams Are Coming True ((500) Days Of Summer)

2009’s “(500) Days of Summer” stands out as one of the most exceptional romantic-comedy films due to moments like these. Tom Hansen (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is floating on cloud nine in the early stages of his relationship with Zooey Deschanel’s character, and he even envisions a spontaneous dance along with the townsfolk during his morning commute, all set to Hall & Oates’ “You Make My Dreams Come True.

“The Name Game” (American Horror Story)

Some of the most unnerving scenes from the TV series American Horror Story skillfully employ the impact of contrast, such as a particularly striking scene from Season 2, titled Asylum. Following an electric shock treatment, Sister Jude (Jessica Lange) imagines herself singing a cover of Shirley Ellis’ 1964 pop tune “The Name Game” alongside her fellow residents at Briarcliff Manor.

Gutterballs (The Big Lebowski)

1998’s cult favorite comedy by Joel and Ethan Coen, titled The Big Lebowski, boasts two unforgettable movie dream sequences. The second one, in particular, stands out as the most gleefully hilarious. After being knocked out by Jackie Treehorn, The Dude (Jeff Bridges) envisions himself and Maude Lebowski (Julianne Moore) as the leading actors in an adult film that emulates the dance-like style of a Busby Berkeley production.

Joel Likes That “Old Time Rock And Roll” (Risky Business)

When did Tom Cruise truly establish himself as a movie star? It was arguably in 1983, particularly in the film Risky Business, where he played Chicago teen Joel. In a memorable scene, he danced and mimed to Bob Seger’s “Old Time Rock and Roll” in his underwear, showcasing his charm and charisma that would go on to earn him an Oscar nomination.

Tina Opens The Movie (Do The Right Thing)

Spike Lee, both writer and director, sets the stage for a striking and challenging cinematic journey as he introduces his 1989 movie, Do the Right Thing. The opening scene features Rosie Perez’s character, Tina, dancing alone to Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power,” which proves to be an unanticipated and emotional introduction to a film that carries profound messages about our society.

Jim And Pam’s Wedding Party Dances Down The Aisle (The Office)

As a devoted cinephile, I can’t forget the unforgettable moment in an episode of the American version of “The Office.” In this particular scene, none other than Jim (played by John Krasinski) and Pam (Jenna Fischer) decided to shake things up during their wedding. Instead of the traditional walk down the aisle, they chose to dance to Chris Brown’s “Forever,” a tune that was originally intended for a Doublemint Gum commercial. Although this move went against their initial plans, it became a uniquely memorable kickoff to their ceremony, leaving an indelible mark in the annals of TV wedding history.

Nathan And Kyoko Tear Up The Dance Floor (Ex Machina)

Alex Garland is an innovative writer and director who consistently impresses his viewers with captivating science fiction ideas, frank social observations, or thrilling dance routines. In each of these areas, he excels, and his mastery is evident in his 2015 technophobic masterpiece, “Ex Machina“. An unexpected change of mood occurs when Oscar Isaac’s mysterious, idiosyncratic tech tycoon, Nathan, and his assistant, Kyoko (Sonoya Mizuno), disrupt Caleb’s (Domhnall Gleeson) questioning by breaking into a lively dance to the tune of “Get Down Saturday Night” by Oliver Cheatham.

“I’m Just Ken” (Barbie)

In 2023’s movie ‘Barbie’, starring Margot Robbie, there was a dance scene earlier where her character hosts a party. This wasn’t unusual, given that the story is set in an alternate reality where dolls are conscious. However, what followed was unexpected – a grand, traditional Hollywood dance sequence featuring Ryan Gosling as Ken, which took place when he felt unappreciated by Barbie during the Academy Award-nominated song “I’m Just Ken.

Jenna Thrills Her Colleagues (13 Going On 30)

One memorable moment in the popular fantasy romantic comedy, “13 Going On 30“, features Jennifer Garner’s character, Jenna (an ’80s teen transformed into her future adult self), attempting to bring excitement to a corporate event by encouraging everyone to mimic the dance from Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” song.

Rue’s Relapse (Euphoria)

In the grip of her cravings, Rue, portrayed by Zendaya, envisions herself starring in a haunting music video for the actor’s song “All For Us.” This fantasy underscores the complex ties she shares with her family due to her struggles. The spectacle reaches its climax as dancers dressed alike carry her out of her house under the cover of night. They function both as her backup dancers and choir, harmonizing in unison. A marching band then joins them, amplifying the scene’s energy while also adding a note of sadness. This poignant and bittersweet finale wraps up the first season of the gripping teen drama series, Euphoria.

The Deetzes Do The Calypso (Beetlejuice)

One memorable and amusing musical scene from a horror film is found in the 1988 movie Beetlejuice. In an attempt to frighten the Deetzes, played by Jeffrey Jones and Catherine O’Hara, along with their dinner party attendees, the ghosts of Barbara (Geena Davis) and Adam Maitland (Alec Baldwin) employ bodily possession to make them dance and sing to Harry Belafonte’s “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song).” To their astonishment, they find pleasure in this unusual event.

Wally, Charley, And Rhonda Channel Bowie (School Spirits)

As a movie enthusiast, I’d put it this way: In the TV series “School Spirits,” I, being a ghost from the ’80s who once ruled the school sports scene, navigate my afterlife on a Midwestern high school campus. To let off some steam and keep spirits high, I blast David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance” and lead my fellow spectral pals in an electrifying dance extravaganza that takes us almost everywhere around the school, transforming the halls into our very own dance floor!

Jamal And Latika Are Victorious (Slumdog Millionaire)

Danny Boyle’s 2008 Best Picture Oscar winner, Slumdog Millionaire, concludes with an energetic dance scene featuring the Academy Award-winning song “Jai Ho,” performed by Dev Patel and Freida Pinto as characters Jamal and Latika. This unexpected shift in the film might have left some viewers taken aback, but it reflects a classic element found in many Indian movies.

The Kids Rock The Library (The Breakfast Club)

1985’s “The Breakfast Club” is often praised as the best high school movie ever, even though it doesn’t depict actual school days, but rather a Saturday detention for five characters representing various levels of teen social structure. These unlikely companions try to alleviate boredom by spontaneously dancing to “We Are Not Alone” by Karla Devito.

“Tequila!” (Pee-wee’s Big Adventure)

1985’s Pee-wee’s Big Adventure continues to be loved as a timeless classic due to Paul Reubens’ endearing portrayal of his title character, the lovable man-child. He manages to win over almost everyone he encounters, such as gaining respect from a crowd of bikers by performing his unique dance to The Champs’ rendition of “Tequila.

Don Dreams Of Bert Cooper Dancing (Mad Men)

In a surprising turn of events, AMC’s series ‘Mad Men’, starring Jon Hamm as Don Draper, featured an unusual instance. This peculiar moment was heightened by the apparent spectacle where Don Draper seemed to witness Bertram “Bert” Cooper, played by Robert Morse, break into a song and dance routine, performing “The Best Things in Life Are Free.

Andy Lets The Sunshine In (The 40-Year-Old Virgin)

2005’s heartfelt and bawdy comedy, “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” by Judd Apatow, concludes with the character Andy, portrayed by Steve Carell, shedding his virginity and expressing his relief through a song. The selected tune for this momentous occasion was “Aquarius / Let the Sunshine In” by The 5th Dimension. This emotional musical expression then evolves into a joyful dance in an expansive field, where the entire cast participates alongside him.

“Come On, Little Sister, Let’s Dance” (The Life Of Chuck)

There aren’t many Stephen King movies with uplifting and hopeful scenes, but the central dance sequence in ‘The Life of Chuck,’ released in 2025, stands out as a notable exception. In this movie, written and directed by Mike Flanagan, Tom Hiddleston’s character interacts with a street drummer named Taylor (played by Taylor Gordon). Moved by the music, he starts to dance spontaneously, even inviting an unnamed young woman, played by Annalise Basso, to join him. Their impromptu performance leaves onlookers in awe.

Will Shows How They Dance In Gelderland (A Knight’s Tale)

In A Knight’s Tale, despite being set in 14th-century Europe, it exhibits several contemporary elements, evident in its dialogue, music, and more. For example, during a scene where William Thatcher (played by Heath Ledger) is compelled to choreograph a dance for the nobility, he receives assistance from his charming companion, Jocelyn (Shannon Sossamon). Soon enough, the entire crowd is grooving to what sounds like David Bowie’s “Golden Years.

Raj’s Romantic Fantasy (The Big Bang Theory)

In a specific episode of “The Big Bang Theory”, character Raj, played by Kunal Nayyar, develops feelings for Bernadette, portrayed by Melissa Rauch. This affection causes him to imagine numerous scenarios involving her, one of which resembles a popular dance scene straight out of Indian cinema.

Donkey’s Swamp Dance Party (Shrek)

At the conclusion of the beloved children’s film, Shrek, which won an Oscar, Smash Mouth performs a cover of The Monkees’ “I’m a Believer” as Shrek (Mike Myers) and Fiona (Cameron Diaz) get married. Eddie Murphy’s Donkey then takes control of the singing, inspiring everyone to cheer wildly in delight for the special occasion.

Terry And Holt “Push It” (Brooklyn Nine-Nine)

During an outstanding episode of Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Officer Amy Santiago (Melissa Fumero) experiences labor pains at the police station, amidst a city-wide power outage. To keep her composed and entertained, Lieutenant Terry Jeffords (Terry Crews) and Captain Holt (Andre Braugher) attempt to amuse her by performing an uproarious dance routine to Salt-N-Pepa’s “Push It.

Dance Of The Dead (The X-Files)

In an episode titled “Hollywood A.D.” from Season 7 of The X-Files, Mulder (David Duchovny) and Scully (Gillian Anderson) delve into a murder mystery on a film set. By the end of the story, the deceased bodies lying beneath are mysteriously brought back to life, engaging in an emotional ballroom dance with each other.

Harry’s Dream (3rd Rock From The Sun)

As a film enthusiast, I was utterly captivated by an extraordinary and dreamlike episode of “3rd Rock from the Sun.” In this unforgettable scene, the Solomons encountered their very first dreams, a mind-boggling event for these extraterrestrial visitors – all except Harry (French Stewart), who found himself immersed in a vibrant, Broadway-style production, feeling as if he had been transported to an upbeat urban setting.

Ed Livens Things Up At The Mental Hospital (Good Burger)

In the movie “Good Burger”, characters Ed (Kel Mitchell), Dexter (Kenan Thompson), and Otis (Abe Vigoda) are mistakenly confined in a mental institution. When a patient, played by George Clinton, asks for a more upbeat music, Ed adjusts it to the funkier tunes of Funkadelic’s “(Not Just) Knee Deep”. He then initiates an intricate dance performance, which Dexter takes advantage of to knock out the guards and make a daring escape.

The Siblings Are Alone Now (The Umbrella Academy)

In my opinion, Netflix masterfully unveils the unique personalities of the super-talented cast from The Umbrella Academy comic book series right off the bat in the pilot episode. As Tiffany’s rendition of “I Think We’re Alone Now” fills the air, we catch a glimpse of each sibling, dancing with their distinct flair, all in different settings.

Backstreet’s Back In Heaven (This Is The End)

In the 2014 film, “This is the End,” co-directed by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the plot concludes with many principal characters (playing exaggerated representations of themselves) gathering in the hereafter. Here, they rejoice their entrance into Heaven by having the Backstreet Boys perform live, with the group appearing as themselves to play “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back).

The Study Group Is Gonna Finally Be Fine (Community)

The start of Season 3 in the series ‘Community’ finds Jeff (Joel McHale) lost in a fantasy where the whole cast participates in an upbeat dance routine, expressing optimism for the upcoming academic year at Greendale.

David’s Three-Way Dance Battle (Legion)

In the premiere episode of Season 2 on FX’s unique take on Marvel Comics, Legion, one of David’s (Dan Stevens) recollections from the past year depicts him participating in a passionate dance-off with Lenny (Aubrey Plaza) and Oliver (Jemaine Clement) at a nightclub.

Lucifer Is Alright (Lucifer)

In the final episode of the TV show ‘Lucifer’, Tom Ellis as the Devil himself initiates a cheerful dance routine involving multiple characters, accompanied by Kenny Loggins’ song “I’m Alright”. The dance begins in a bar and continues into the police station, where Lucifer and Detective Dan recreate a memorable scene from ‘Dirty Dancing’.

2025-07-24 14:42