Top-notch choreography gets lost amid half-baked political
posturing and self-indulgent sentimentality in first-time
director Scott Speer's dance sequel. The hackneyed plot of
this fourth installment in the franchise -- which began with
2006's "Step Up" -- focuses on a Miami urbanite (Ryan Guzman)
who, together with his best friend since childhood (Misha
Gabriel), leads a dancing flash mob that's on its way to fame
and fortune. After he falls for an equally fleet-of-foot
hoofer (Kathryn McCormick), they join the whole troupe in
protesting her millionaire father's (Peter Gallagher) plans
to redevelop local land and raze their downscale neighborhood
in the process. Risque routines -- as well as a few turns of
phrase too salty for the youngsters who would otherwise
probably enjoy this outing the most -- dampen the fun still
further.
Watch out for: Much highly suggestive
dancing, a single censored rough term, occasional crude and
crass utterances.
Rated: The Catholic News Service
classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture
Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly
cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children
under 13.
© Arlington Catholic Herald 1970