May 17: Saturday Night Fever

Saturday Night Fever

John Travolta gives a sensual and intelligent performance as the troubled Tony Manero – Brooklyn paint store clerk by day and undisputed king of the dance floor by night. Every Saturday, Tony puts on his wide collared shirt, flared trousers and platform shoes and heads out to the only place where he’s seen as a god rather than just some young punk. But in the darkness, away from the strobe lights and glitter ball, is a tragic story of disillusionment, violence and heartbreak. Without a doubt, Travolta’s performance made him a Hollywood legend, but Saturday Night Fever is more than just a movie that defined the music and fashion of a generation. It’s a powerful and provocative urban tragedy that carries as much significance today as it did in 1977. (Paramount)