‘Moonwalk’ Revives Legacy of Kerala's 1980s Breakdancers
A new Malayalam film, ‘Moonwalk,’ is bringing a vibrant, forgotten chapter of Kerala’s cultural history back into the limelight. Inspired by the state’s first real-life breakdance troupe, the Footloosers, the film celebrates the resilience and passion of a group of young men who introduced a new style of street dance to Thiruvananthapuram in the 1980s.
The Birth of a Movement
The story of the Footloosers begins with its founder, Santhosh Kumar, better known as Babu Master. Initially inspired by his uncle, the legendary Malayalam action hero Jayan, Babu’s interest in movie stunts soon evolved into a fascination with dance. "The Tamil and Telugu movies used to have songs featuring some dance moves," Babu recalled. "Since I had trained in martial arts, I caught it quickly."
In 1986, while in arts college, Babu and his friends formed a troupe called the Crimmers. By 1988, they had renamed themselves the Footloosers and began performing wherever they could find an audience. Their dedication paid off when they were offered their first stage and ₹500—a huge sum at the time. The group became known not only for their moves but also for their style, influencing local fashion with their performance-ready attitude.
Footloosers in their hay days
From Street Corners to the Silver Screen
The rise of artists like composer A.R. Rahman and dancer-actor Prabhu Deva in the 1990s marked a turning point. The new era of music and dance gave the Footloosers a bigger canvas. "We got songs and performances like Mukkala Mukkabala," Babu said. "We started making theme-based choreography with a story in it, which I think people enjoyed more." Over the decades, the Footloosers went on to choreograph for around 65 films, leaving a lasting mark on the industry.
A Story That Endures
‘Moonwalk,’ directed by Vinod AK, was first imagined as a documentary before being fictionalized for a broader audience. For members of the troupe, the film's release has brought long-overdue recognition. "To see many people talking about this dance group today is such a happy feeling," said Vipin, a choreographer who joined the group in 2004.
The film's impact has been immediate, with old friends and former members reconnecting and a video of the original group going viral. It serves as a powerful reminder of their journey and influence. In conclusion, ‘Moonwalk’ is more than just a film; it is a tribute to the enduring spirit of the Footloosers. It proves that a passion pursued with dedication can create a legacy that continues to inspire decades later.
They have aged gracefully
