Season 30, Week Four, Night Two: Disney Villains Night and a Double Elimination

Left to right: Carrie Ann, Len, Derek, Bruno. Not pictured (ever): Tyra Banks.

I’m just gonna say that I’m so over Tyra Banks. OK then.

Since there was no elimination last night (this is Dancing with the Stars Season 30, Week 4, Night 2, for those keeping score at home), there will be a double elimination tonight. *Gasp*

We have, of course, more footage of couples at Disneyland. Jimmie is “all in” on Disneyland.

Emma and Jimmie, jazz

They are dancing to Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy,” which is that Billie Eilish song that you know but don’t know the name of.  (Outfitted as Tinkerbell and Captain Hook, who for some reason are fighting). OK.

Look at this amazing set!!!! Two real waterfalls! Skull Island!

At the end, she looks like she’s about to throw a punch. :-0. Come on, Tinkerbell would NEVER do that. You don’t throw punches if you’ve got magic, and fairy dust. And if she did, he’s got a HOOK for a hand. Emma’s a great dancer and choreographer, but man, she’s not big on lyrics or story. OK, this went WAY outside of plausibility for me. But it was a fun dance. And I couldn’t figure out how they kept lighting her (in the way that Tinkerbell is incandescent…at least the set and lighting and costume people are paying attention to the actual story…), cause she just glowed. (As Tinkerbell does.)

Len: “I liked the concept, the story within the dance. Captain Hook, fighting little Tinkerbell… I thought the lifts were right in character. You’re surprising me each week, because your dancing is coming right on point.” Derek: “Jimmie, I’m so impressed with you, my man. That side by side, when that kicked in! It had so much oomph to it, so much energy. Some people transform on this show, and you are definitely one of those people. I’m loving seeing your progress, man.” Bruno: “That was a badass jazz routine. You gave it your own style. You were totally in character. You never dropped it. Your strongest performance to date.” Carrie Ann: “Jimmie Jam. Disney is totally your jam. I can tell how much you love it, because it came through in both of your dances. Last night and tonight. That was amazing.”

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Cheryl and Cody, Viennese waltz

They are dancing to “Gaston” from Beauty and the Beast (thank goodness it wasn’t “Be Our Guest” again). The dancers may not be clued in to the story, but man, the set designers sure are. Look at this one.

Note Pasha (eliminated last week) and Britt among the troupe members on the stage in this dance.

Another lack of continuity. This song is sung to Gaston by his buddy. So who’s Cheryl’s character supposed to be? Gaston’s alter ego or something? Ugh. I’m not liking the story presentation of the dances so far. But that said, I did like the dance. 

Derek: “Not a lot of people know this, but you guys had the least amount of rehearsal time this week. So, well done for getting two routines in this week. You had the flaring of the gusto of Gaston. You always are such a great performer. Technically, there are still some things to work on: getting the frame up, and the natural turns, the reverse turns, and get lower in the legs, it will help you get a little more balance. Overall, great performance.” Bruno (who has his gold sparkly pants on): “Gaston, so irresistibly dashing, is a curse. I know the feeling, Cody. You know, very very hard. But I actually have to say, I’m so happy to see you in a full production, able to really exploit your talent, because you’ve got it. He’s right, a bit of polishing, but you can work a stage.” Carrie Ann: “Cody, thank you, thank you, thank you. All the moves were finished, you were bold, you were polished. You were so animated. Cheers to you.” Len: “Cheryl, I congratulate you, natural reverse turns. You even put a freckle in there! And that was fantastic. Well done to both of you.”

JUDGES: 31 (Out of 40)

Gleb and Melanie, Viennese waltz

Since Sleeping Beauty was also an animated movie (without song), they are dancing to Lana del Rey’s “Once Upon a Dream.” (And Mel C. is playing Maleficent.)

Sets, costumes, lighting!

I’m sure Len will say this, but there wasn’t much of a Viennese waltz there.

Bruno: “Magnificent Maleficent, you’ ve got plenty of drama, mama. It was so haunting. But there was a quality I really liked, it was like suspended animation. Like you were weaving a spell all around you. I loved it.” Carrie Ann: “That was your best dance, by far. There was the transformation that we’re looking for. You went from Sporty to the Queen of Evil. Sensual, powerful, the continuation of the movement was so languid and sensuous.” Len: “I liked the mood. You created a fantastic atmosphere. I don’t wanna be glib, Gleb, but you could’ve had a little bit more Viennese waltz in the Viennese waltz. (Knew it!) What was on the label, not on the table.” Derek: “Big props for navigating those horns. Sometimes that can throw people, but you handled it beautifully. That was ominous and forbidding performance. Gorgeous.” 

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Jenna and JoJo, paso doble

Courtesy of Just Jared and ABC.

They are dancing to “Ways to Be Wicked” from Descendants 2. (?) The song is terrible, but the costumes and hair are fantastic. (It’s hard to take a song seriously, especially as a “Villain” when one of the lyrics is “W-I-C-K-E-D.” Ugh.)

Carrie Ann: “JoJo, you are a fantastic performer, always I love the energy you bring and the dedication. This week, I didn’t think that was your best dance. I thought it was a little hectic. What I’m looking for, always, is transformation. That’s what keeps the playing field level for everybody. This week, I felt like we kinda went back to old tricks and old habits. I like when you have a little bit more elegance.” Len: “It possibly could’ve been hectic, but for me, what I loved, it had control. That wasn’t just all the time right on point. You’ve done two dances: Viennese waltz, paso doble. Both ends of the dance spectrum. Both fantastic.” Derek: “I actually feel like maybe the hecticness was just the hair flying around. You look at the dancing, I agree with Len, it was super in control, had so much content in it. Had the power, had the oomph that I love to see in paso doble.” Bruno: “My shielding beauties. Equally strong, equally gifted. It was like watching two supervillains battling for supremacy. And you both won. A paso doble like no other.”

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Brendan and Kenya, Viennese waltz

She is the Evil Queen in Snow White, and they are dancing to “Dangerous Woman” by Ariana Grande.

Well, once again, the lyrics don’t fit the story. The Evil Queen always knew she was a “dangerous woman.” But I liked this Viennese waltz enough to go with it.

Len: “Well, the bars you did in hold were appreciated. The technique weren’t great, however, basically it was a lovely dance in 3/4 time, done very very well, so congratulations.” Derek: “Kenya, this Evil Queen was a vibe. I loved it. Just like sultry, sensual, seductive. I was so into it. It was so good. You are fierce, you really really are. I just want you to believe that a little bit more in the dance. I want you to own that fierceness within you, cause you definitely have it. There it is.” Bruno: “Oh, sassy madam. No mirror can do justice to your regal beauty. I loved the way she played with the boy. You would tease him to death. Use them! I had enough. Next!” Carrie Ann: “I am so impressed with the way you kept on your center, because there are moments when you almost got pulled off, and you were just ‘I am not letting go. Not tonight.’ That was your best dance.”

JUDGES: 30 (Out of 40) 

Daniella and Iman, Argentine tango

Daniella and Iman are dancing to “Arabian Nights” from Aladdin, and Iman is Jafar.

Wow. Some amazing lifts in that Argentine tango. Pretty incredible.

Derek: “Yo! That opening and ending lift was iconic. Seriously. There was no momentum there, from a static position. A lift with that control. That was a moment. I just felt that in the room, that whole routine. I’m kinda speechless. That was really, really good.” Bruno: “People are told: ‘No special effects. No wires.’ A feat of magical strength. She was in the air more than a commercial airliner. I don’t know how you did it. Impressive.” Carrie Ann: “I’m truly blown away. That was one of the most magical performances I’ve ever seen on this show. There was something about the different levels of the tone.  Like you could see the different chapters of the story. It was poetry in motion. It blew my mind.” Len: “Congratulations, that was your best I’ve seen.”

JUDGES: 33 (Out of 40) 

Artem and Melora, jazz

She’s playing the villainous mother from Tangled. In their package, they show Kate Flannery (who should’ve won with Pasha in her season, IMHO) visiting their rehearsal.

It’s kinda weird because Tangled is all about Rapunzel and her long hair, and Artem is now playing… her son? #Bizarre With an eye patch? The entire song is vocals that Melora reacts to with grand gestures. (Not so much dancing.)

We learn that the vocals that they used were actually Melora’s! Wow. Nice voice.

Bruno: “When it comes to deliver wickedly delicious dancing musical comedy, nobody does it better.” Carrie Ann: “You’re a little cray-cray. It all came out today. I love it. You’re so theatrical. This is the kind of thing we wanna see. We wanna see everything big and bold at the fifth night of competition. You were amazing. It was a little safe.” Len: “That had wit, it had charm. It was truly delightful.” Derek: “Boy, that was an absolute clinic in storytelling, and absolute theatrical performance. You were magnificent. Beautiful.”

JUDGES: 37 (Out of 40) Len gives a 10, the first 10 of the season.

Witney and The Miz, Argentine tango

The Miz talks about he likes being a villain in WWE, and he likes being booed. He’s playing Scar from The Lion King, whom he says is “the worst of the worst villains.”

I liked the dance, but mostly it was Witney doing all the Argentine tango, and The Miz lifting her up.

Carrie Ann: “The men are on fire tonight. What is happening? That was incredible. What I loved was the way you channeled all your energy into focus and intimacy. And the specificity of movement tonight was on fire.” Len: “I wasn’t prepared for that. I liked the lifts, they were in character. Lovely moments of Argentine tango. All mixed up with a really theatrical performance.” Derek: “It’s 10s across the board for your commitment to the costumes, for both Disney nights. You win, you win. Even through the costume and the makeup, I could still see the articulation in your body and your movement. It was so fantastic. Brother, great, great job.” Bruno: “Very scary. Don’t bug me. I have some catnip, just in case. I have to say, in spite of the scary appearances, there was so much content there, and in general, very very good. Great performance.”

JUDGES: 34 (Out of 40)

Sharna and Brian, paso doble

They are doing Pirates of the Caribbean. He is playing Captain Barbosa and she’s Jack Sparrow. Sure, why not? It’s not really explained why these two characters would get into hold and dance, but ok.

A very fun paso, with Sharna’s usual great choreography.

Len: “Well, I liked the aggression that you showed in that. I liked the fight scene. That was really lovely.” Derek: “I loved the dance/fight choreography. It was so entertaining to watch. I’m not gonna lie. I definitely had a heart attack for some of those explosions in there. Well done for staying focused during that. Cause that was a lot.” Bruno: “You had more firepower. You’re fully loaded.” Carrie Ann: “I know it’s hard for you, but what I love is that was a valiant effort. I definitely saw you in it to win it. You’re going for it, you’re doing the moves. Very proud of you.”

JUDGES: 27 (Out of 40)

Lindsay and Matt, paso doble 

They are dancing to The Jungle Book, and Matt is Kaa the Snake. Lindsay is playing Shere Khan, the tiger. Ugh. I hated that dance.

Derek: “Matt, I was feelin’ ya, man. Your face. Where you were just like into it, man. I loved it so much. Great job.” Bruno: “That was a solid performance. Power, intent, content. You can do it, Matt. You have to refine now. Extend, maintain and refine.” Carrie Ann: “This is the first time I really felt like you gave us all. You left nothing behind.” Len: “Well, in the paso, you look for three Ps—you want posture, you want passion, you want performance. I saw that a little bit, but really, you could give me so much more. Now come on!”

JUDGES: 31 (Out of 40)

Val and Olivia, jazz

They are dancing to “Remember Me” from Coco. Which is kinda bizarre, since Coco doesn’t really have “villains” per se. But Val changed it to be more a husband-wife fighting with each other for attention, which kinda worked. The dancing was kinda minimal though. Mostly just dramatic faces. Still, I love anything Val does.

This is not Olivia and Val, these are the troupe dancers.

Bruno: “I’m having so much fun, I’m going Coco-loco. (*eyeroll*) Really, you captured the spirit of the movie. Perfectly. We know you’re getting better and better and better as a dancer. But you can act as well.” Carrie Ann: “I’m impressed with the acting and it felt a little safe for me. I’ve seen you dance in the pocket. Tonight I felt like you were just a hair in front of it. You are growing every week.” Len: “There’s a saying: ‘I could’ve danced for joy.’ This was such a joyous performance.” Derek: “I could hear Len during that whole performance, ‘I love it!’ The whole time. Listen, I can’t believe you’ve never danced before, because you are a natural-born performer.”

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Sasha and Suni, Viennese waltz

Sasha and Suni are dancing to “I Put a Spell on You” from Hocus Pocus.

Carrie Ann: “Suni! You’re finally really going there. The articulation, I could feel your energy, I could feel the energy move. So when you dance beyond your body, I could feel you do every move. Finally, I feel the performance has met the technique.” Len: “You look so good in hold, Sasha, next ballroom dance, let’s get a little more in hold. She looks great.” Derek: “I’m still recovering from Sasha running off like a little cat. I’m dying. Suni, you’re beautiful, you’re magnificent. You have beautiful, beautiful arms. Like Carrie Ann said, your performance is starting to come out, and we absolutely love that.” Bruno: “Bewitching, my darling. The flow of the movement, those long lines—keep it going, it’s working.”

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Alan and Amanda, paso doble

Courtesy of Just Jared and ABC.

They are dancing to “Call Me Cruella” and she, of course, is Cruella.

Len: “It had a feeling of menace, which I liked to see. Lovely interpretation from you, Alan, for the music.” Derek: “Amanda, you look unbelievable. You played the part to perfection. You were so good that sometimes the little details catch my eye. That was a phenomenal paso doble.” Bruno: “It was devilishly stylish, with a hint of danger and a lot of aggression. It was going so well. There was a slight misstep. Otherwise, it could have been perfection.” Carrie Ann: “That was powerful and masterful, and so divine. I have to say, a beautiful way to end an incredible night. Bravo to everyone who worked on these shows.”

JUDGES: 36 (Out of 40)

These are the scores from both Disney nights, plus our votes, plus the Mickey Dance Challenge points.

I have to say that I thought the Disney Villains night overall was a #FAIL because it was just all over the place. The music from the movies (by and large) wasn’t very good. The Villains weren’t villainy enough. One Disney night is enough.

So, who’s going home on this Double Elimination night?

The Bottom Three:

1. Sharna and Brian

2. Lindsay and Matt

3. Brandon and Kenya

are in the Bottom Three.

Brian and Sharna have the lowest totals and are eliminated. Judges decide between the last two.

Len decides to save Kenya and Brandon.

Miche’s Favorites of Villains Night

1. Daniella and Iman, Argentine tango

2. Artem and Melora, jazz

3.Sharna and Brian, paso doble 

4. Val and Olivia, jazz

5. Sasha and Suni, Viennese waltz

6. Brandon and Kenya, Viennese waltz  

7. Cheryl and Cody, Viennese waltz

8. Alan and Amanda, paso doble

9. Emma and Jimmie, jazz

10. Gleb and Melanie, Viennese waltz

11. Jenna and JoJo, paso doble 

Can Go Home Anytime Now

1. The Miz 

****************************

Season 30, Week Four, Night One: Disney Heroes Night and No One Goes Home

It’s Covid times at Dancing with the Stars, so we still don’t have a proper opening number, but we do have our couples at Disneyland, each doing a few steps. Well, it’s better than nothing. They danced to “Zero to Hero,” which is fitting because it’s Heroes Night. (Cheryl and Cody were not included, neither were Sasha and Suni for some reason. Perhaps because Sasha and Suni didn’t go to Disneyland. They got to view the new movie, Encanto, instead.)

And we have one of the stupidest things they’ve ever done on #DWTS tonight. They have a series of moves (shown by Mickey Mouse) that our couples (well, pros) must incorporate into their choreography, no matter the dance style. Ugh. Who comes up with this nonsense?

Jenna and JoJo, Viennese waltz

Courtesy of Just Jared and ABC.

Well, you knew it was going to happen: that two women dancing together for the first time as competitors on DWTS meant that one of them would be dressing in drag at some point. Well, here it is. JoJo as Prince Charming. And it’s wonderful. Just sublime.

Can I just say how stunning Jenna’s Cinderella costume is? Bravo to the costume team.

They are dancing to “A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes” from Cinderella, of course.

Len: “You danced a couple of bars of reverse turns, a couple of bars of natural turns, in hold, which to quote another song is just about the bare necessities. However, having said that, it was beautifully danced. Your footwork was fantastic. And I enjoyed watching you so much.” Derek: “Last time I was judging you, I mentioned that More isn’t more. Tonight proved that. You were so clean, so elegant. It was a breath of fresh air. Beautifully danced.” Bruno: “JoJo, Jenna, you two are a dream come true. This was a Viennese waltz for the 21st Century. Full of charm, grace, elegance. All was so beautifully executed.” Carrie Ann: “JoJo, I am so proud of you. You just showed the whole world that you can do anything guys can do, and sometimes maybe even better. That was amazing what you’re doing. What I loved the most was that you toned it down and you were the frame for Jenna to shine tonight.” 

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Gleb and Melanie C., jazz

It’s great to see Melanie C. as Mary Poppins. Also great to see her do a few cartwheels. I thought there was more to the song than just “Step in Time” over and over again, but it was a fun dance.

Derek: “Melanie, I actually had the privilege of dancing ‘Step in Time’ with Dick Van Dyke a couple years ago, and I know if he saw this, he absolutely would have loved this. This was like a full musical production: you had the props, you had the set. You danced it so well, so acrobatic. Some of the transitions were a little hectic here and there. But overall, fantastic.” Bruno: “That was so difficult, because the tempo sped up. It wasn’t even. You wove in the Mickey Challenge very very well in the structure, as an introduction of the routine. You lost sync a little bit.” Carrie Ann: “Oh my god, that was jam-packed. Move after move, it was like a stunt show, an action adventure come to life. It was a little bit out of sync.” Len: “That was just like Disneyland. It was full of fun, joy and it was enchanting.” 

JUDGES: 31 (Out of 40)

Lindsay and Matt, quickstep

Everyone tells Matt he should be Frozone for Halloween, so here he is, living the dream. This was my favorite of their dances so far, although I think he botched a spin at the beginning.

Bruno: “Mr. Frozone, it looks like you’re defrosting nicely. The quickstep is all about feet. I have to say: they are getting better.” Carrie Ann: “Listen, we’ve gotta still work on your technique. What I loved is, I smiled the whole time. Anyone who can do that in a unitard and still make me smile like that, God bless you, Matt James.” Len: “I admire your tenacity and your work ethic. Quickstep’s not an easy dance. Your technique wasn’t great. But it was fast and it was energetic. I enjoy watching you every week.” Derek: “First of all, I just love the commitment, going full out with the outfit. It was stressing me out a little bit, with the glasses, I was like: can he see? I don’t know, is he gonna fall over, OMG. It was really entertaining.”

JUDGES: 26 (Out of 40)

Emma and Jimmie, paso doble

They take a page from Mulan, and Jimmie dedicates it to his dad. They are dancing to “I’ll Make a Man Out of You,” which is kinda weird with Emma dancing it with him, but ok. Sometimes these dancers just don’t listen to the lyrics…

Carrie Ann: “That was incredible. There was dignity, there was passion. I loved how you did the Mickey Challenge. Everything about that dance was delicious. I loved it.” Len: “You got into the paso doble feeling for the dance. It was a little bit of walking about going on, which I wasn’t too keen on.” Derek: “Jimmie, what I’m so impressed with you about is your texture. Your texture and your movement. It looks just wonderful.” Bruno: “Great! I loved the menacing warrior. I loved the touches of martial art.”

JUDGES: 30 (Out of 40) 

Alan and Amanda, rumba

Wow. Didn’t like these costumes at all. Guess they can’t all be winners. What is that scarf thing? Ugh. Well, in the movie, she was a gorilla, so I guess the costume could be anything.

They dance to “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan. They talk about how (in the movie) it’s a mother talking to her son. But they are dancing a rumba. Ick.

I didn’t like anything about this dance, and Alan’s bizarre hair was really distracting.

Len: “Well, in rumba, you need control, you need romance, you need chemistry. You need your hips to show us the rhythm of the dance. Your arms should show us the melody of the dance. All of that you got. I thought it was brilliant. It was so beautiful. I loved it.” Derek: “Hold on, hold on. I didn’t think you missed the Mickey Dance Challenge at all. It was like a contemporary break in the rumba. I disagree with you, Len. Here’s the thing I love: every fiber, every muscle in your body is working. You can really see the articulation in your feet, using the floor, into your feet, into your arms.” Bruno: “Both of you, thank you for the eye candy, btw. And your pants have shrunk. Let’s talk about the rumba: effortless, easy, natural. You really made it look easy.” Carrie Ann: “Amanda, real quick, I just wanna say, you seemed a bit cautious. But what I love is that you actually attempted proper rumba, and you didn’t hide behind anything. So I really appreciate that.” 

JUDGES: 32 (Out of 40) *overscored*

Val and Olivia, samba

These costumes are a little better. Although getting The Lion King from this is a bit of a stretch. They are dancing to “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King.”

It was a really fun dance. I love Val’s choreography so much, even when he has to incorporate that stupid Mickey Dance Challenge, and go back into samba. It was beautiful. And they did samba rolls.

Derek: “Wow. Olivia. I am not a cat person, and you do not look adorable in that makeup. Listen! That samba? You are like becoming one of my favorite performers on this show. There’s like an effortless fun to when you dance, every time you dance. It’s just so fun to watch you. The samba rolls, the stationary samba walks, the promenade runs, you had it all in there.” Bruno: “Look at you. The spirit of a wild cat, with the sprint of a cheetah, and yet, she maintained the lightness of a gazelle. You’re so versatile. You have such range. What more do you want? You’ve got it.” Carrie Ann: “I loved almost everything about that. What was the most impressive though, was dealing with the music change. Hard music change, and you’re not an experienced dancer. To be able to come back in like that, shows the trust. What I love most about this couple right here is the chemistry and trust that you guys have. It’s gonna take you so far.” Len: “Zippity do dah. Lots of zip, and no do dah anywhere.”

Courtesy of Just Jared and ABC.

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Witney and The Miz, quickstep

They are dancing to “A Friend Like Me” from Aladdin. 

Now these costumes rock. So beautiful. To say nothing of his makeup!

Bruno: “I really appreciate the fact that you really go for it. You work very hard. You give everything you have. And we love your performances.” Carrie Ann: “What I love most about this performance is that you’re really honing your energy in to match the specifics of each dance. That’s something that you struggled with from the beginning. You bring and you elevate the mood of the room every time that you step out in this ballroom dance floor. You are so much fun to watch.” Len: “You didn’t just take off and fly, as you quite often see. You danced it with control, which I thought was terrific. You’re really light on your feet for a great, big bruising guy. I thought you did a terrific job.” Derek: “You gotta hand it to you. You’re always full out, fully committed to whatever you’re doing, and we appreciate that. I think everyone appreciates that. I would say a little bit more body contact, but I’m afraid you’d get a little bit blue on Witney. So, let that slide.”  

JUDGES: 31 (Out of 40)

Brandon and Kenya, contemporary

I gotta state my dislike for Contemporary right up front. They dance to “How Far I’ll Go” from Moana.

These costumes were amazing, and the lights made them even more magical. The dance was ok.

Carrie Ann: “I’m frustrated because Kenya, there was such a freedom in your expression tonight. This was like the most open and joyous and open-hearted I’ve seen you, which is tough coming back, after last week (they were in the Bottom Two). So I have so much respect for that. I thought it was beautiful.” Len: “It was beautiful, and I compliment you on the way that you performed that. I thought it was a first-class performance.” Derek: “I feel like you started off, and it felt a little timid at first. You just started smiling, and I got chills. You did the little hula moment. Oh, I loved that.” Bruno: “Kenya, my darling, don’t worry. I felt it all. I felt the motion of the water, the beautiful waves rolling, the Polynesian hula. It was just lovely. Until he hit the rock. Watch it next time.”

JUDGES: 29 (Out of 40)

Sharna and Brian, waltz

He’s Prince Charming, and she’s Snow White. And they are waltzing away (*swoon*), and I’m here for it. Oh, how beautiful.

Len: “I don’t know about ‘Someday, My Prince Will Come,’ I never thought the waltz was gonna come. (Len hates frou-frou stuff at the beginning.) It was so much kissing and cuddling and messing about, then you did a little bit of waltz. Then, there was too much wafting going on. I would’ve liked to have seen a much more traditional waltz…”

Val’s reaction to Len’s comment: 

“…But that would please me.” Derek: “Not at all. I think the opening image (when the Prince leans down to kiss Snow White on her bier) was as pretty as a picture. It was a screen shot taken right out of the film, so magical, beautiful, and when you are in frame, your frame is fantastic, brother. That was beautiful.” Bruno: “Darling, don’t worry. It looks like you’ve got your prince under control. I’m getting all the sweetness and niceness, but sometimes too much sweetness gives you a toothache. You need more traction, more action, more involvement. Give it light and shade. You know, you’re an actor. Portray all those qualities. I know you love each other. I love it, and I love you two. Come on, more sweeping vibe, more power.” Carrie Ann: “There was a little lift. Just a little. I gotta do it. I have to be fair to everybody. It’s part of the rule. We’re not supposed to lift in waltz.”

JUDGES: 25 (Out of 40)

Sasha and Suni, salsa

They are dancing to “Columbia Mi Encanto” from the movie Encanto. (And why didn’t anyone give them popcorn? Come on now, Disney!)

She does so many flips! Guess that’s what you do when you have a gymnast as a partner. Wow. Wonderful salsa, I loved it.

Derek: “I’m still digging it. I love seeing you open up more and more each week. I had so much fun. That was so great. So much fun.” Bruno: “It was a fiesta of a salsa. You’re getting freer, and able to express more every week. A delicious salsa.” Carrie Ann: “What I love is every single move you do, you could take a snapshot. It looks perfect. Everything’s so perfect about the way you move.” Len: “That was the most expressive that I have seen you. You really came out of your shell.”

JUDGES: 33 (Out of 40)

Artem and Melora, quickstep

They are dancing a quickstep to “I Wanna Be Like You,” from The Jungle Book. Melora is playing Balou. She says it’s one of her husband and kids’ favorite movies. 

I love her costume so much. I don’t know if she looks like a bear, but she looks fabulous. I mean, come on! Look at that fringe flying.

Bruno: “The Queen of the Jungle is in delightfully good form tonight. She’s becoming the Queen of the Ballroom. The best quickstep I’ve seen so far this season. You managed to put a lot of comedic slapstick Charleston, but the actual content was brilliant.” Carrie Ann: “You bring all these textures and styles, and then you always bring something that’s sort of unexpected. We’ve been watching dance for a long time. You bring something unexpected to every dance floor. That’s what makes you special.” Len: “That was, by far, your best dance. It was great. Your technique in hold was great. You had personality. Never doubt yourself. You are a dancer.” Derek: “When you did this part (he recreates it), for me, that was the best dance of the night.”

JUDGES: 36 (Out of 40)

Cheryl and Cody, jive

They are dancing a jive to “Standout” from A Goofy Movie. Cody is definitely a big Disney fan.

Fun dance. It’s so good to have them both back in the ballroom, after their Covid travails.

Carrie Ann: “All right! Cody and Cheryl, welcome back to the ballroom! It’s so good to have you guys back. That was a great performance, I loved all your energy. But you’ve just gotta finish your moves.” Len: “Well, I don’t like to be a party pooper, but it was too much side by side. There wasn’t enough of what I would consider as a jive in there. There was a few hints of it. If I’m gonna be honest, I was a wee bit disappointed. Cause you’re a really fit guy, and the jive should be right up your street.” Derek: “Great energy. You’re such a great performer, especially in that opening moment. Incredible. I agree with Len a little bit, especially when it got into the partner work. Little bit more kicks, little bit more flicks. Overall, great job.” Bruno: “Your power surge nearly blew my fuses. He is right. Jive: kicks and flicks. But I understand you haven’t been able to work close together. Next week, you’ll sort it. Great performance.”   

JUDGES: 27 (Out of 40)

Daniella and Iman, foxtrot

Can we just take a moment for this incredible set? Wow. So beautiful.

They are dancing to “Let It Go” from Frozen, as you can imagine.

Wow. He is more than a full head taller than she is. Interesting choice. When she sings, “Let it go,” they get into hold. LOL Other than that, a beautiful foxtrot.

Len: “Well, it’s obvious you’re great at delivering (he talked in the package about delivering his two children), and you delivered a really elegant foxtrot. Listen, it’s wonderful to see a great big guy trying to show romance, trying to show movement. I thought you did a really good job.” Derek: “What I love about you is you can see your improvement. Your frame was beautiful, the way you glide across the floor, it was fantastic. So smooth.” Bruno: “Tonight I got the feeling that I really wanted from you. When you embrace your bigness and you extend your arms, at times you look like an eagle taking flight. You know this feeling of command in the room, and stretching and reaching all the way around. I could see it tonight. Tap into that feeling, because you’ve got it.” Carrie Ann: “I absolutely agree with you, Bruno, for sure. You know what’s so amazing? Tonight is Disney Hero Night. And we’ve seen heroes, and we’ve been inspired all night, but you’re a hero in real life, by getting out here and dedicating this dance. You could see and feel the love in every movement. And that’s what makes you stand out to me with our dancers.” 

JUDGES: 30 (Out of 40)

Who gets the two bonus points for the Mickey Dance Challenge? Emma and Jimmie.

Who goes home? No one, it’s Disney Heroes Night!

Miche’s Favorites of Heroes Night

1. Sasha and Suni, salsa

2. Val and Olivia, samba

3. Daniella and Iman, foxtrot

4. Jenna and JoJo, Viennese waltz

5. Artem and Melora, quickstep

6. Cheryl and Cody, jive

7. Gleb and Melanie C., jazz

8. Sharna and Brian, waltz

9. Emma and Jimmie, paso doble

10. Lindsay and Matt, quickstep

Can Go Home Any Day Now

1. The Miz

2. Amanda

3. Kenya

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Season 30, Week Three: It’s Britney Night and Covid Hits One More Time

Last week, as you may remember, Cheryl got Covid, and they did their dance from rehearsal tape. This week, her partner Cody got Covid, so they are again dancing remotely. Also, judge Derek Hough is sitting this one out, “in an abundance of caution.”

Alan and Amanda, cha cha

They dance to something called “Circus” that I’ve never heard of. She does have great legs, and uses them to do amazing splits.

Len: “I was intrigued to find out how you would cope with Latin American dances, because you’ve done ballroom dancing up until now. And I must say, you coped very well. There’s a few dances on this show that I almost know what I’m going to get. There’s nothing spontaneous. And with you, it’s always clean, it’s clear, but it doesn’t really excite me. I wanna get excited.” Bruno: “What a show! What a cha cha cha! First Latin, and you have a hit. You ooze star quality. Those legs, I’m telling you, they are a weapon to be reckoned with.” Carrie Ann: “You are stunning. Normally we don’t use that word for a cha cha, but you are stunning. What I loved about it most was that it was clean, it was sharp, it was elegant. You obviously worked on your technique. But what is lacking, I think, is your posture.”

JUDGES: 24 (Out of 30)

Daniella and Iman, tango

Nice choreeography, as usual, by Daniella. They tango to “Piece of Me.” The height thing, man, whoa! But they work around it nicely.

Bruno: “That was a nice, solid piece of tango. I really appreciate the fact that you are really concentrating on getting the right move. You even tried heel leads. You were in control. You tried to keep your frame. You have to try now to make it a little bit smoother. Drive it through smoothly.” Carrie Ann: “Iman, I did not expect that today. No offense. You know I’m a fan. The way you toned down your steps to match Daniella is so impressive. It’s so hard to do. Your height difference is unbelievable. No one would ever put you guys together in the real world of ballroom dance.” Len: “Unlike Amanda, I’m never sure what’s gonna turn up. Sometimes I think WOW, sometimes not so much. I could see you were trying to work your feet, but they weren’t always fantastic. Let me say: your feet are a long way from your heart, and you always come out and give it your all.”

JUDGES: 19 (Out of 30)

Pasha and Christine, paso doble

Pasha and Christine dance to “Stronger.” I really enjoyed this paso. And the costumes!

Carrie Ann: “Christine, yay! I’m so glad we saved you to see you have this moment. You were fighting for that moment. You were fighting for every step. Your shaping is beautiful. You have such flexibility. You have control. You have everything that it takes to win this competition, and tonight you showed us that you are on your way, girl.” Len: “I was so shocked that you were in the Bottom Two last week. I could not understand it. I’m so glad you’ve come back, because you’ve danced a really clean, crisp, plenty of energy paso doble. It was terrific.” Bruno: “I love it, Christine, when you’re tough. You were in charge of the paso doble. Go for it, honey.”

JUDGES: 21 (Out of 30)

Jenna and JoJo, Argentine tango

Wow! This dance to “Hit Me One More Time” was amazing. They are incredible together.

Len: “It was an extremely well-crafted routine. I liked the lifts, because they were part of the flow of the dance. It had a little bit too much staccato. It looked like a ballroom tango in places. It didn’t have that sort of oozing as that you see in the Argentine tango. Having said that, you can’t make a bad performance. You’re always right on point.” Bruno: “JoJo, you know how to hit it. She goes straight for the bullseye every time. The way she pitches the performance is always the right side of sexy. So titillating. She works the camera like no others.” Carrie Ann: “What I love about you is you’re like liquid sunshine. When you dance, there’s something very powerful about you that’s also so approachable. The most impressive thing that I watched is when you lead. You lead with clarity and intention. It’s so easy to watch. The guys should be watching that too.”

JUDGES: 24 (Out of 30)

Brandon and Kennya, tango

Her dress was gorgeous, but what’s up with that jacket of his? Bizarre. They dance to “Womanizer.” I liked this tango a lot.

Bruno: “My love, you’re back on track! What a good tango that was! It was gliding across the floor beautifully. I never felt like you were pushed by Brandon. You were right up with him. Such poise. Such elegance. That was so chic. I loved it.” Carrie Ann: “It was so chic. It was beautiful. You are so giving supermodel vibes tonight. You’re just so refined and elegant and so strong in your center. That was amazing.” Len: “Your hold was a little bit loose at times. You did lack a little bit of body contact. However, you captured the flavor of the dance, and you moved well around the floor.”

JUDGES: 21 (Out of 30)

Sharna and Brian, tango

In their package, he explains to her the extent of the fame of his show, “Beverly Hills 90210.” “Oh, that’s how famous you were,” she intones. LOL Yeah, he was damn famous. Even more famous than she is now. Pretty funny.

I loved this tango. One of the few where you can really feel the passion between the two dancers. The costumes are fire, too.

Carrie Ann: “Whoa, fire. You have finally arrived in the ballroom, my friend. Now you’re serious. That was serious dancing. I’m very appreciative of the hold and the body contact. It was amazing. I’m so proud of you. Fantastic.” Len: “Your frame was overall good. It was nice. Your body contact was there. Your footwork was pretty poor, actually. But I must say, it was a spirited effort.” Bruno: “He’s right. The footwork. You really have to work on that. You can have all the right intentions, but we are getting toward the middle of the season. You really have to perfect that.”

JUDGES: 19 (Out of 30)

Artem and Melora, cha cha

Melora and Artem dance to Britney’s “Crazy,” and it looks like he was driving her crazy in rehearsal. But she’s a trouper. And she’s here to show you that Amanda isn’t the only one with great legs! Love her costume and her hair.

Len: “That’s the Artem I know and love that gives me a full-on cha cha cha. And that had so much more hip action. It was a great performance.” Bruno: “Wow! Melora, what’s going on? Nothing will contain my excitement. It’s like a veil has been lifted. And I’m actually seeing you in full focus for the first time. You got it, honey.” Carrie Ann: “Melora, at this stage of the game, everybody is starting to stand out for different reasons. What’s so special about you is you make this look easy and natural, when you know it’s nothing but. Somehow you’re able to add light and shade, and you’re not so stiff and tense. That is spectacular.”

JUDGES: 23 (Out of 30)

Gleb and Melanie C., tango

So she’s the flight attendant and he’s the friendly skies? LOL

They dance to Britney’s “Toxic.” Have I mentioned that this season they have all the stars and pros on the sidelines, with drinks and stuff, in little tables? I think they also have their friends and families in a special VIP area with drinks. 

Bruno: “Very impressive cockpit. You were flying high on that tango. And the service? Come on. First-class all the way.” Carrie Ann: “It was so filled with content. That was a hard piece of choreography to learn, and I’m so impressed. Your legs are great, your lines are great.” Len: “Well, it was a bit stop-start. At the end I liked it much more. It took awhile to get cracking. Once you got into the dance, you get into hold, you do a little bit, then you break hold. So it had a jerkiness. Once you got near the end, it was really good. But the bottom line: you are a terrific dancer.”

JUDGES: 22 (Out of 30)

Emma and Jimmie, salsa

They dance to “Outrageous.” Emma’s choreography is pretty amazing. Lots of lifts, beautifully done.

Carrie Ann: “Well Jimmie, first of all, real men do cry. So don’t worry about that. It just shows you’re sensitive. As far as the dance goes, the lifts were super rough. The last one, you nailed.” Len: “Well, I liked the nice easy action of it. It had rhythm all the time. Sometimes your steps were a little bit big. The last lift I didn’t think was in character with the dance, the other ones were a little bit dodgy.” Bruno: “They must’ve been watching another show. Don’t you worry. Because I saw when you let loose, it all flows beautifully. The rhythm, the hips, it was going brilliantly. So listen to reason. And listen to me, that was good.”

JUDGES: 20 (Out of 30)

Val and Olivia, tango

They dance to “Hold It Against Me.” Best tango of the night, also best choreography. Val just creates magic week after week. Amazing tango.

Len: “Listen! Listen to the noise, Val. That was a proper tango. No messing about at the start. Straight into the dance. Full of staccato, full of attack. You pros: THIS is what I wanna see. Not messing about, I want full-on dancing.” Bruno: “You were on it, like a bonnet. I can’t believe it. What I really love about Dancing with the Stars is moments like this, when you see people transforming, in front of your eyes. And you, Olivia, have become a beautiful dancer.” Carrie Ann: “Olivia, you are truly blossoming. That was so far the best dance of the night, as far as I’m concerned. It was fantastic. You are graceful, you are elegant, and you are strong, and you are passionate. All of it together.”

JUDGES: 24 (Out of 30)

Cheryl and Cody, jazz

This week, Cody has Covid. And they are not performing from rehearsal tape, they are performing live on the show, but remotely from their respective homes. It helps that Cody is a Britney super fan. 

As you can see, this time, they both have costumes and makeup.

And given the constraints, I thought it was wonderful.

Bruno: “I really admire the perseverance and the commitment, in spite of it all. I wish you were here. I know you have the ability. It’s very difficult to judge, especially the sync. It’s a very good effort.” Carrie Ann: “Bravo to both of you for dancing with Covid. I know Covid is no joke. So I’m very impressed with both of you. Look, we have to judge it from what we have in this ballroom. And did that compare? Not quite. The truth is, it wasn’t as great as I know you can be. And that’s disappointing. But I’m glad you finally had your Britney moment.” Len: “Well, these are strange times. And they throw out strange scenarios. I wasn’t sure how this would work. I must say: I thought you were clear and tight together. I know it’s difficult, but where you could, you got that little interchange going, with the hat and so on. I thought for the circumstances, you did a terrific job.”

JUDGES: 18 (Out of 30)

Sasha and Suni, foxtrot

They are dancing to “I’m a Slave for You,” and Sasha is the snake. Hahahaha

Carrie Ann: “OK. You’re definitely pushing your boundaries, I can tell you’re going past what’s comfortable with a routine like this. I sense a little bit of discomfort, doing some of the more sensual moves. What I want you to know is that performing like that, you can be innocent and still sensual. And still exude your confidence. And that’s what we’re looking for. I’m very proud of you.” Len: “Not so much for me. You didn’t capture the foxtrot. It’s a romantic dance. This, this was a little bit steamy. First ballroom dance.” Bruno: “Oh, I don’t mind steamy. A bit of moisture makes you glow. I love the fact that you actually started to play with a character. As you let it go, your performance becomes more effective.”

JUDGES: 21 (Out of 30)

Lindsay and Matt, tango

I always think it’s creepy when stars dedicate tangos to their moms. Also creepy is the backdrop of Matt’s abs. Ugh. Didn’t we get enough of that on The Bachelor? Come on. 

They are doing a tango to “Let It All Out,” which I guess he was doing in that backdrop. Oh, they also have b/w glamour shots of Lindsay. Ugh.

I didn’t like the song at all, and didn’t like the dance either. His legs were bent through the whole thing.

Len: “I congratulate you that you got on with it, and it was a full-on routine. You had plenty of passion, and plenty of attack.” Bruno: “I’m a bit disappointed. You’re a bit overdressed tonight. (He’s not showing any chest onstage.) I wasn’t expecting that. But I have to say, you did a very good job. The concentration on his face! You really worked very very hard. Lots of content.” Carrie Ann: “I agree with my fellow judges. You did really well. What I like is there was a new refinement in your dancing. I thought your posture was beautiful.” 

JUDGES: 20 (Out of 30)

Witney and The Miz, salsa

The Miz says he’s going to “outwork everyone.” Considering that Suni, in her package, whined about going to school and doing gymnastics AND doing DWTS, that’s probably not hard.

They are doing a salsa to “Oops, I Did It Again,” which makes Britney fan Witney so happy she jumps up and down. 

Awful lot of flips and spins and lifts in that dance.

Bruno: “When it comes to shirts, less is more. (The Miz has his shirt open. And seriously, Bruno should be taken to HR.) We got the magic. What’s going on? Whatever it is, keep going.” Carrie Ann: “Mike, you’re so much fun to watch. The joy of you. And I see how much attention you put to all the details. The lifts were amazing, some things we’ve never seen before. But I have to tell you, for salsa, I needed to see it more relaxed up here. You were tight.” Len: “Unlike some of our stars, you’ve got absolutely no dance background. And to come out and perform to that level, I thought was fantastic.” 

JUDGES: 22 (Out of 30)

So who’s in the Bottom Two? And who’s going home?

The Bottom Two are Brandon and Kenya and Pasha and Christine. :-(

Going home?

Damn. Bummer. I liked them. Oh well.

Miche’s Favorite Dances of Britney Night

1. Val and Olivia, tango

2. Sasha and Suni, foxtrot

3. Jenna and JoJo, Argentine tango

4. Daniella and Iman, tango

5. Sharna and Brian, tango

6. Alan and Amanda, cha cha

7. Pasha and Christine, paso doble

8. Cheryl and Cody, jazz

9. Gleb and Melanie C., tango

10. Emma and Jimmie, salsa

11. Artem and Melora, cha cha

12. Brandon and Kenya, tango

Need to Go Home

1. Matt

2. The Miz

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