The Compensatory Cha-Cha

The Film Yap Lexicon is comprised of terminology for certain cinematic phenomena that occur often enough to form discernible patterns — typically events or circumstances that are patently ludicrous to customs of narrative or known science and, on occasion, the result of misguided choices by filmmakers. Although these terms could take their name from numerous films, they are principally derived from the prime examples of this phenomena.

When an inferior film, especially a family-oriented comedy, tries to cover up for its failings by inserting a silly song-and-dance number at the end of a film in order to lift the deflated spirits of the audience. The song and dance does not fit any narrative purpose and only exists to give the audience a "feel good" moment at the conclusion of the film. The Compensatory Cha-Cha typically uses a song famous in pop culture, either a hit from the time the film comes out, or an older hit with kitchy appeal.

The Compensatory Cha-Cha is used in films like "Shark Tale," the "Madagascar" movies, and even in live-action films like the Brendan Fraser pic "Furry Vengeance."

Note: In some instances comedies will spoof this device by using it in a good movie: see "The 40 Year Old Virgin." This is also not to say that good films haven't used this device, for example the first two "Shrek" and "Despicable Me" films.

What other movies use "The Compensatory Cha-Cha"? Comment below and offer your own entries to the Film Yap Lexicon at lexicon@thefilmyap.com!