You gotta hand it to Whit Stillman. After being away from screens for over a decade, he could've taken an easier path with a more accessible film, but you're not likely to see any movie this year as quirky, unique or distinct as "Damsels In Distress." The already high wire comedy centers on a quartet of girls who run a suicide prevention center on their college campus, with a variety of methods that include good hygiene, perfume and….dancing.
Yes, dancing. While the verbal wordplay Stillman is known for is in full effect, "Damsels In Distress" not only displays a highly stylized visual palette, but it also introduces the world to The Sambola! Just when you think the film couldn't be any more entertainingly absurd, this dance is introduced, and if you really want to know how it's done, a delightful guide to the steps plays over the end credits to the film. Milan Records has dropped the appropriately zany song that accompanies the dance, and you can check it out below.
If you like what you hear — or are just plain curious to see how it fits into Stillman's oddball and endearing little film — see "Damsels In Distress" when it opens on April 6th.