Why a Thriller Filmmaker Made a Cross-Cultural Dancing Dramedy with ‘Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty!’
Josef Kubota Wladyka calls his third film, inspired by his mother, "by far the most personal" The post Why a Thriller Filmmaker Made a Cross-Cultural Dancing Dramedy with ‘Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty!’ appeared first on TheWrap .
Josef Kubota Wladyka's latest feature film, "Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty!", marks a departure from his previous two thriller films. The project holds deep personal significance for Wladyka, as he aimed to honor his mother, who continues to compete in ballroom dancing at 81 years old. The story revolves around Haru, a former ballroom dancer portrayed by Rinko Kikuchi, who returns to the world of dance after a tragedy. Haru develops romantic feelings for her new instructor, Fedir, played by Alberto Guerra.
Wladyka explained that the film's visuals, including the ballroom dresses and Rinko Kikuchi's performance, were inspired by his mother. Kikuchi studied videos of Wladyka's mother to capture her mannerisms. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival 2026, receiving strong reviews and securing distribution by Sony Pictures Classics after its Jan. premiere. Wladyka and Guerra emphasized the film's unique blend of genres and its refreshing departure from traditional Latino storytelling.
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