After one too many run-ins with the law, rebellious Haley Graham (Missy Peregrym) is sent to the Vickerman Gymnastics Association, as part of her sentence. She encounters a lot of hostility from the other gymnasts there, because years earlier, when she had been a very promising gymnast, she had walked away from a competition, causing the whole team to be disqualified. Now that she’s back, some people find it hard to forgive – and Haley’s attitude does not help matters; she doesn’t want to be there, and scorns those who dedicate so much of their lives to the discipline. But coach Burt Vickerman (Jeff Bridges) is determined to get through to her, and to set her back on the straight and narrow…
I’ve seen a lot of criticism of this movie, but I did enjoy it. Haley is quite a stereotypical character, but Missy Peregrym gives her a lot of heart and character, and it was hard not to root for her. Jeff Bridges – who can always be relied upon to give an excellent performance – is a lot of fun and seems to relish his role as the firm but fair Vickerman. Vanessa Lengies, Nikki SooHoo and Maddy Curley play their supporting roles well.
The ending was less predictable than you might expect. I thought I knew exactly what was going to happen, but there was a twist in there which I didn’t predict, and which actually seemed a little at odds with what had gone before it, despite being good fun.
The soundtrack was terrific – lots of punchy and vibrant dance music, and the gymnastic routines were fabulous to watch.
Overall, this isn’t a movie which is going to change your life. You probably won’t have any great epiphany after watching it. But you will probably end up dancing around your living room with a huge smile on your face. It’s an enjoyable movie and a great way to pass a couple of hours.
Year of release: 2006
Director: Jessica Bendinger
Writer: Jessica Bendinger
Main cast: Jeff Bridges , Missy Peregrym, Vanessa Lengies, Nikki Soohoo
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