Movies

Step Up 3D

Rick Malambri and Sharni Vinson star in the movie “Step Up 3D.”

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In this third installment of the street stomping franchise, the setting shifts from Baltimore to New York as the leader (Rick Malambri) of a Gotham dance crew recruits a college freshman (Adam G. Sevani) he takes under his wing and a nightclub denizen (Sharni Vinson) for whom he quickly falls to help win a contest, the proceeds from which will forestall foreclosure on the loft where he and his followers live and practice, but his quest is hindered by his new protege’s academic and amorous distractions (the latter caused by Alyson Stoner) and by the underhand scheming of a friend-turned-rival (Joe Slaughter). Three-dimensional effects enhance the precision choreography in director Jon M. Chu’s generally buoyant follow-up to his 2008 feature debut “Step Up 2: The Streets,” but the nimble numbers in this tale retreading familiar Hollywood themes of dream fulfillment and the self-selecting circle of friends as do-it-yourself substitute family are interspersed with flat-footed dialogue, a creaky plot and some provocative moves and lyrics.

Watch out for: At least one use of the S-word, occasional crass language, a mildly irreverent joke and scenes of moderately suggestive dancing.

Rated: A-III; MPAA: PG-13

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