Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that they may very enjoy this fun made-for-TV Disney movie as much as their kids, tweens -- and yes, even teens -- will. It's got drama, emotional turmoil, moments of triumph, and touches of sweet romance (just one kiss), plus some impressive Double Dutch jump rope work and a catchy soundtrack. If all that wasn't enough, the real-life father-and-son acting team delivers heartfelt performances about the struggles of being different from your peers, following your passion in life, and standing up for what you believe in. The storyline sometimes alludes to serious issues like family financial troubles or the recent death of a parent, but the mild references aren't upsetting and make the characters seem even more believable.
Families can talk about the influence of peer pressure. Who decides what's "cool" and what isn't? Why is it hard to be different from other people? What happens if you choose to be different? Kids, have you ever felt peer pressure? How did you respond? Were you happy with how you reacted? If not, what would you have done differently? Parents can also encourage tweens to talk about their own passions and relationships. What do they like to do? Do they feel supported by their friends and family in their choices? How can parents encourage open discussions with their kids?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Emily Ashby
Grab some popcorn, join your kids on the couch, and settle in for this heartwarming, high-energy Disney movie that will give the whole family a lot to smile about.
JUMP IN! is the story of Izzy Daniels (Corbin Bleu of High School Musical), a teen boxing sensation known around his Brooklyn neighborhood as the best thing to enter the ring since his dad, Kenneth (Bleu's real-life father, David Reivers), donned gloves years ago. Since the recent death of his mother, Izzy and Kenneth have bonded over boxing, and Izzy's focus never wavers as he looks to follow in his dad's footsteps: He spends every available moment at Kenneth's gym, training for the upcoming matches that could launch his anticipated career.
But when his pretty neighbor, Mary (Keke Palmer, Akeelah and the Bee), all but dares him to join her Double Dutch jump rope team for an upcoming competition, Izzy jokingly accepts, thinking that he'll stick around just long enough to prove how easy the so-called "sport" is and then be on his way. But to his own disbelief, Izzy discovers that he's a jumping natural, and, what's more, he actually enjoys the high-stepping, acrobatic choreography between the ropes.
Worried about disappointing his father -- and terrified that his buddies might find out that he's defected to such a, well, "girlie" pastime -- Izzy keeps his new allegiance to himself. But when word gets out about his secret, he has to make a choice between following his heart and living out his dad's championship dreams.
Jump In! is a thoroughly entertaining story about a teen learning about himself and what's important to him and asserting his independence from his father and peers. Filled with defining moments and clichéd-but-true words of wisdom ("You can't just fight to get respect," and -- from a female boxer -- "People make fun; I figure that's their problem"), the movie takes a critical look at the challenges of shrugging off gender-specific expectations and shows how summoning the courage to be the odd man (or woman) out in a crowd can inspire others to change the way they think, too.
The strong cast is anchored by Bleu and Reivers, who deliver outstanding performances as a father and son striving to understand each other. And viewers of all ages will be amazed at the host of international Double Dutchers who lend their talents to this winning drama.
Fans may also enjoy the soundtrack album, as well as High School Musical and The Cheetah Girls.
Rate It!
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Sexual ContentFlirtatious exchanges are prevalent but very mild; one scene shows a very quick kiss. |
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ViolenceBoxing scenes obviously include lots of punching, but blood is never drawn, and there aren't any lasting injuries. |
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LanguageCharacters talk some trash over boxing and Double Dutch competitions, but there's no cursing. |
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Social BehaviorThe multicultural cast includes an African-American widower dad who's devoted to his kids and engages in honest discussions with his teenage son about feelings. The movie addresses typical adolescent fears about being perceived as different, balancing personal goals with parental influence, and finding a passion in life. Lessons about the depth of family ties, self-respect, and the courage to go against the grain send positive messages to viewers of all ages. |
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CommercialismThe movie gives plenty of air time to its catchy soundtrack. And it's Disney, so expect lots of other tie-ins, too. |
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