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Turn the Beat Around (NR, 2010)

common sense media says

Fun, sexy dance flick will appeal to teens.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that dance-loving teens will probably love this TV movie's updated disco dance moves, but parents may want to exercise some caution when allowing younger teens to watch. The movie features some very strong sexual innuendo, including obvious sounds of sexual activity and cast members climbing in and out of bed in various stages of undress. Words like “piss” and “bitch” are used frequently. Social scenes feature people drinking (beer, cocktails, mixed drinks) and one drunken argument. Lots of logos appear, like Apple, Seattle Coffee, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagon.

Positive messages: Reaching for your dreams and not giving up are major themes here. Others themes include class tensions, family relationships, and infidelity.
Positive role models: There are both strong friendships and catty behavior between the characters, with one character in particular exhibiting a jealous and vengeful streak. Zoe has a strong relationship with her mother but a difficult one with her stepfather. Multi-ethnic cast.
Violence: Some arguing, pushing, shoving, and one drunken brawl.
Sex: Strong sexual innuendo. References to "booty calls," and couples are shown climbing into bed in their underwear or partially undressed while hugging, kissing, and making out (but no nudity is visible). Obvious sounds of people engaging in sexual behavior. Female dancers often wear revealing clothing, and dance moves are sometimes provocative.
Language: The word “bitch” is used frequently, and "pissed" occasionally. The term “gringo” is used to describe a dance style.
Consumerism: Logos like Apple, Seattle Coffee, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagon, and Voss mineral water are visible.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: The consumption of alcohol (beer, wine, cocktails, hard liquor) is visible, especially at nightclubs and bars. At least one person is shown slightly intoxicated. One physical fight is influenced by alcohol.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Turn the Beat Around

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can talk about what it was like in the disco era. What were some of the popular disco songs? Dance moves? Do you think these songs or dances will become popular again?
  • Sexy dance moves can be fun, but when do they cross the line and become inappropriate? What are some of the differences between scripted sexual encounters in TV and movies and the consequences of being sexually active in real life? Parents: here are some tips for talking to your kids about some of these issues.

What's the story?

What's the story?
TURN THE BEAT AROUND is a made-for-TV movie featuring Romina D’Ugo as Zoe, a young L.A. dancer looking for a big break. When she convinces wealthy club owner Michael (David Giuntoli) to open a disco-themed nightclub, she recruits friend like club DJ Steph (Jennifer Miller) and dancers like Irena (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) to dance the moves that capture the sizzle of the glam generation. But things get complicated when Chris (Adam Taylor Brooks), her boyfriend and fellow dancer, can’t cope with her success. Meanwhile, professional dancer Malika (Brooklyn Sudano) seems determined to sabotage everything that Zoe has worked so hard for.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

This MTV original movie revives some of the familiar themes from other dance-flicks like Flashdance  and Center Stage, like holding on to your (dancing) dreams and not giving up. Meanwhile, the lively choreography, which mixes hip hop, Latin rhythms, and classic disco moves, is fresh enough to be entertaining while still staying true to the fun and tacky glam of the disco-era. The cameo appearance of R&B singer Jason Derulo adds to this appeal.

The story is pretty predictable, and sometimes it seems as if it's trying a bit too hard to be edgy by throwing in lots of strong sexual innuendo and iffy language. But the new takes on classic nightclub tunes will likely appeal to a generation of teens who are too young to have experienced the disco scene. It might also attract reminiscing viewers who were there themselves.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: MTV Films
Director: Bradley Walsh
Cast: Adam Taylor Brooks, David Giuntoli, Romina D’Ugo
Genre: Drama
Run time: 88 minutes
Theatrical release: February 26, 2010
DVD release: March 9, 2010
MPAA Rating: NR
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

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OhioParent
parent of 9 and 12 year old
17
 
Fun Movie, not for tweens or younger
I thought it was a great movie. I do believe it would be inappropriate for the younger teens. I also know that you know your kid/teen, and it would best for you to preview the movie (I try to preview most of the movies my two girls watch).
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