To the Beat!

This magnificent film kept me dancing on my feet the entire time. I used to take hip-hop classes, so I couldn't help but dance along. It amazes me how talented the dancers are, and their dedication truly inspires me. I cannot believe some of the girls have been dancing since they were 3 years old. Even if you are not a dancer, you will certainly want to become one after watching this film.

Twin sisters Mia (Brisa Lalich) and Mackie Castillo (Laura Krystine) are passionate, 14-year-old dancers who constantly support each other in every rehearsal and competition. Although they have danced for their entire lives, both have distinctive dance styles. Mackie loves jazz and Mia is exceptional with tap. Their honed dance skills are put to the test when their favorite popstar arranges a contest for the best five dancers to appear in his upcoming music video. The girls must create their own routine in order to advance to the next stage. Mackie and Mia form separate teams and get help from their friends and family to receive the most online votes. When one of the best dancers, Avery(Jayden Bartels), decides to join the competition, tension arises among the girls, because Avery tries her best to get the upper hand in the competition.

Mackie is such a strong, independent girl. She constantly encourages her sister Mia to never doubt herself, even when Avery thinks she is the best dancer of them all. My favorite character, hands down, has to be Avery's mom (Martha Madison), because she wants to be in her daughter's music video. She loves Paula Abdul and embarrasses her daughters, but she is Avery's number one fan. Each character is vastly different, but they juxtapose each other quite well.

The dancers' outfits are impeccable. A few girls wear leotards; some wear leggings. But Mackie's team has the best outfits. During the final competition, Mackie's team wears silver jackets, which are very stylish. In addition, this film is set in Simi Valley, which is not far from where I live. I go to the Simi Valley Town Center sometimes, and I enjoyed seeing the girls walk around where I shop.

My favorite part is when Mackie and Mia execute their handshake. You can see how they have an unbreakable bond. I love how both sisters appreciate each other and never fight. I have a younger sister and, seeing how they truly respect one another, reminds me of my relationship with my sister. I love my sister more than words can say and you will love your sibling even more after watching this film.

The message of this film is that hard work certainly pays off. Treat your family with love and care, because they are always there for you, through thick and thin. Never let competition keep you from achieving your dreams and always remember to believe in yourself.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars, recommend it for ages 12 to 18. Actually, it is perfect to watch with your family. After watching this film, you and your family will be closer together.

Reviewed by Samantha M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, visit kidsfirst dot org.

As a no American, everything was going well UNTIL it had the scene with the kids talking to their MOTHER about their Dad and as usual, American writers had to include the sickening thing about someone being in the Military which has NOTHING to do with a Dance film, ugh, no one outside of the USA cares about it.

My teen daughter wanted to watch this. I wasn't expecting much. I was pleasantly surprised. Of course it had some over the top acting which is so common in this genre, but the situations and setup were more believable than most. I found myself actually laughing at some of the scenes, where it was intended. I will be more than happy to watch this again with her.

This was a fantastic movie on par with shrek. This is a movie for everyone. The movie allows so many fan theories such as Avery's mother's crippling crack addiction and the underground assassin clan set up for a very likely sequel.

I would have probably given this movie a 3 or 4 because it has the tween movie pass. But the rating was SO HIGH! there is no way this movie is a 7!.

I enjoy kids and teen movies every once in a while and understand there is some cringing in plot points and acting. But this movie is just beyond they typical tween film.

You can tell they wanted dancers not actors because the acting was just absolutely horrendous.

I really couldn't get past it.

Everything else was fine but seriously. Bleh.