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Take the Lead

Yes, Take the Lead is a dance version of Dangerous Minds: devoted teacher uses unorthodox teaching methods to reach out to “problem kids” in an inner-city high school. That does not, however, mean this movie isn’t visually titillating and extremely entertaining.

Antonio Banderas, normally cast as a musician (The Mambo Kings, the Desperado trilogy), moves with as much sexiness as he speaks in this movie. His acting chops aren’t half bad either, as he manages to pull off this heavily clichéd plot without seeming preachy or dogmatic.

I was glad to see Rob Brown again, who first hit the silver screen in Finding Forrester. Although the scope of his character was limited by the movie’s formula (good student haunted by the death of a sibling from criminal activity), he manages to play it with a depth and subtlety that most actors hope for in recreating this role.

I cannot say the same, however, for Alfre Woodard. Though an amazing actress in her own right, her role as the no-nonsense principal trying to keep her at-risk school together comes off as harsh and, at times, unsympathetic. It seems like the director couldn’t decide whether or not she was the film’s antagonist.

Others in this cast of young, attractive actors include Dante Basco (who will forever in my heart be Rufio from Hook), Yaya DaCosta (of America’s Next Top Model fame), and Broadway actress, Laura Benanti.

Dance movies require three things: a good plot, decent acting, and thrilling dance sequences. The plot is usually obvious, like a big dance competition at the finale of the movie. You Got Served has amazing dancing but horrific acting, while Save the Last Dance has great acting, but less-than-impressive dancing. Take the Lead, with the help of an all-star cast, manages a successful balance between both.

Written by: Katherine E. Webb

Reviewers Rating: 7.5
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