Taken Too Far

Deadly Dance Mom is one of those movies you have to be in the mood for. If you want women-in-jeopardy, Lifetime Channel-type fare, it might be just the ticket. Acting is adequately over the top when it needs to be, the production values are surprisingly good for a low budget TVM, and the story moves along at a healthy clip. Beverley Mitchell is sweet but not saccharine as the mother of the more talented dance girl, and Christina Cox as the malicious titular dance mom is so out of control she almost elicits sympathy. As she weaves her tangled web of malice and deceit, we are swept along for the ride, wondering what evil deed she has next up her sleeve. When she receives her comeuppance (and a probable prison term) at the end, the ultimate family tragedy of a broken home is made good by the dad's renewed commitment to her daughter, and the bond of friendship now reaffirmed between the two girls. Perfectly suited to a "personal day" at home with a hot tea or glass of chardonnay, some fluffy pillows, and a turned-off cell phone.

Taken Too Far was a compelling psychological thriller that while very entertaining, also has a great message about obsessive parents and the lengths they will go to in an attempt to fulfill their lost dreams through their children. Good performances, especially from Beverly Mitchell, and a well-written story with poignant social commentary, made this a movie I would recommend to any parent with children involved in any type of competitive activity as a cautionary tale about when support for one's child goes too far.

I generally enjoy Christina Cox movies but this was awful. No real plot. And the girl from 7th Heaven is annoying.

Love this film... We've all seen the some crazy adults do stupid things when it comes to their kids performing and competing. DEADLY DANCE MOM is a fun and nicely done TV movie that looks one Dance Mom that will go to extraordinary lengths to ensure her daughter success. The story and acting are well done. If you like the TV Dance Mom series, you'll love this.

A jealous mom with issues mixed with Chardonnay is never a happy ending! DDM characters were well written with some quality lines. I loved the Midwest setting and the cautionary tale of getting too involved in your children's lives to fulfill oneself. Taken Too Far is also a good title but Deadly Dance Mom reminds me that sadly, this isn't too far from a real news story. I'd recommend this as a movie to watch with your kids.