Meeting Christine Lakin, Director of the upcoming feature “I Won’t Dance”, at AFM this past week was such a breath of fresh air. We connected instantly — not only as fellow former dancers, but as filmmakers who believe deeply in the emotional language of movement and the power of hopeful, uplifting storytelling.
Christine brings a rare blend of artistry, groundedness, and sincerity that you don’t often find in this business. You can feel her passion and clarity of vision the moment she talks about this film. Written by Allison Johnson, I Won’t Dance already has such a charming heartbeat to it, and with its irresistible tagline, “All’s fair in love & waltz,” you know you’re in for something truly delightful.
In the below photo left to right are: Director: Christine Lakin, Reporter: Jacqueline Murphy, and Producer: Toni D’Antonio: The movie’s log-line says it all:
“The blue-collar belle of the ball must partner with her nemesis, the bad boy of the ballroom, for a shot at the title: National Teen Dance Champion. Not killing each other would be a win.” It’s sharp, fun, heartfelt and has that classic dance-film electricity, but fresh and modern.
And having Sharna Burgess, Dancing With the Stars Pro and Mirror ball Champion, as choreographer is just the cherry on top. The movement in this film is going to be exceptional.
I also had the pleasure of meeting the powerhouse producing partner on the project, Toni D’Antonio of Shake the Tree Productions. Her drive, experience, and slate of other projects make her the perfect creative force behind this film. You can feel how deeply she believes in Christine and this story, which says everything. As someone who also comes from a acting and dance background, talking with Christine truly inspired me. Our paths intersected so naturally at AFM as filmmaker to filmmaker, dancer to dancer.
For anyone in the industry looking for a heartfelt, entertaining, dance-driven story with genuine commercial appeal, keep I Won’t Dance on your radar. Christine and Toni are building something special, a film with spark, humor, and real heart.
I can’t wait to watch this project soar.
