The plot is by no means new; a person goes into an urban school and turns around a group of students that everyone else has given up on.
That this is based on a true story makes this incarnation of that familiar plot a lot easier to watch and enjoy. That, and another great performance from Antonio Banderas.
Wonderfully choreographed and acted, this film though a tad long, manages to work in spite of the cliché plot that it works within.
You know pretty much that Antonio is going to win them over and they will learn a lesson, as will Antonio. But that doesn't matter. Watching the kids learn to dance, Antonio strut his stuff and above all, see a positive message presented, is worth the price of admission.
Some might accuse the film of being too sappy and not daring enough, but it is what it is. That it was inspired by true events and person gives you hope that there is a way for youth to express themselves beyond the normal violence and substance abuse.
That this is based on a true story makes this incarnation of that familiar plot a lot easier to watch and enjoy. That, and another great performance from Antonio Banderas.
Wonderfully choreographed and acted, this film though a tad long, manages to work in spite of the cliché plot that it works within.
You know pretty much that Antonio is going to win them over and they will learn a lesson, as will Antonio. But that doesn't matter. Watching the kids learn to dance, Antonio strut his stuff and above all, see a positive message presented, is worth the price of admission.
Some might accuse the film of being too sappy and not daring enough, but it is what it is. That it was inspired by true events and person gives you hope that there is a way for youth to express themselves beyond the normal violence and substance abuse.