During the summer of 1963, Frances “Baby” Houseman, a 17-year-old girl from a wealthy family, vacations at a resort in the Catskill Mountains with her parents and older sister. Baby is an idealistic and intelligent young woman with dreams of joining the Peace Corps.

While at the resort, she stumbles upon a hidden world of exciting dance parties held by the staff. She is drawn to the charismatic and talented dance instructor Johnny Castle. When Johnny’s dance partner, Penny, finds herself in trouble and unable to perform, Baby volunteers to take her place in an important dance performance.

Johnny agrees to teach Baby how to dance, and through rigorous practice, the two develop a deep romantic connection. However, their relationship is met with resistance due to their social class differences. Baby’s father disapproves of Johnny, believing him to be irresponsible and dangerous.
Despite the obstacles, Baby and Johnny perform their routine flawlessly, proving her growth as a dancer and their undeniable chemistry. However, Johnny is falsely accused of theft and is fired from the resort. Baby stands up for him, and with the help of the resort owner’s wife, the truth is revealed.
In the film’s iconic final scene, Johnny returns to the resort’s end-of-summer talent show and pulls Baby onto the dance floor for a stunning performance to “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.” With the support of the audience, Baby finally performs the famous lift, symbolizing her transformation and newfound confidence.
The movie ends on a high note, with Baby and Johnny sharing a victorious and passionate moment as the crowd cheers.