Step Up (2006)
“Y’all know exactly what you want. For me, it’s better not to want anything. That way it never goes away.” – Tyler.
Step Up (2006)
Directed by: Anne Fletcher
Written by: Duane Adler, Melissa Rosenberg
Starring: Channing Tatum, Jenna Dewan, Rachel Griffiths
Annie Fletcher’s teen-romance film Step Up followed the dance-movie craze of the early 2000s, catapulting Channing Tatum into the limelight with his breakout role. Widely panned by critics for being shallow, bereft of a compelling script, and too light on dancing, the movie was a phenomenal box office success, grossing $144 million worldwide off a $12 million budget.
The film focuses on Tyler Gage (Tatum), an underprivileged foster child who is sentenced to 200 hours of community service at the Maryland School of Arts after he breaks in and trashes the school theatre. When local dance student Nora Clark (Dewan) finds herself without a partner for her important ‘senior showcase’, Tyler volunteers to help fill the void. As sparks begin to fly between the two, Tyler must balance the dance, Nora, and his childhood friends while working out what he really wants.
As previously stated, the Step Up franchise has been universally panned by critics. However, the five films and spin-off television series grossed a massive collective total of $650 million. This dichotomy between financial and critical success usually means one thing: it’s an incredibly easy watch. And that rings true here – with the original Step Up movie being the DEFINITION of an easy-to-watch movie.
Now, I’m not going to sit here and claim that this is an all-time classic and refute all the main criticisms. Yes, the plot is far-fetched. Yes, serious issues are brushed aside and forgotten within seconds. Sure, there could definitely be more dancing scenes within the movie. But…who cares? It’s a fun, energetic coming-out party for the bubbly duo of Tatum and Dewan, and that’s all I cared about when chucking it on. They’re both fantastic dancers, but it also helps that they exhibit real chemistry as the lead couple – with the two actors going on to get married shortly after the film. The dance numbers throughout are entertaining and supported by some boppy naughties hip-hop, with a particular shout out to the club scene in the middle.
There is also some depth to the movie, with the lifestyles of Nora and Tyler juxtaposed as a comparison between the rich and the poor, the coddled and the ignored. Tyler makes money jacking cars and hustling people on local basketball courts, while Nora goes to a ‘posh’ school and volunteers as a ballet teacher. These initial perceptions and stereotypes are slowly quashed, with the movie emphasising that no matter your upbringing, there will always be both opportunities and disappointments in life. There’s also an overarching message about the importance of loyalty and commitment.
I’ll admit it; the story is lazy and filled with holes. But it doesn’t matter - the genuine chemistry between Tatum and Dewan make Step Up a legitimate romance movie, and there are enough entertaining dance numbers to keep you hooked. If you’re looking for a simple, easy-to-watch, cheesy romance, look no further.
Rating: 7/10
Plot nitpicks (note, spoilers below):
How long does the sun stay up in Maryland? In one day, Tyler goes to school, goes to do his community service after school, then goes to play basketball for a few hours, and the sun is still well and truly up when he gets homes. Daylight savings for the win.
Tyler’s sister gives him an Orange Juice in the middle of this movie. That has got to be the biggest OJ in movie history. Vitamin C overdose for Tyler.
Nora’s original dance partner Andrew returns from his injury in the middle of the film, kicks Tyler out, but then acts super surprised when he “can’t do the routine”. Mate, you’ve been watching the routine being choreographed for at least two months, surely you could have said something earlier?
Why is Nora dating Brett at the start? He’s the worst.
Why is Lucy dating Colin? He’s the worst.