In the colorful world of high school dance competitions, Work It steps up to deliver a blend of heart, humor, and rhythmic moves. This 2020 Netflix film stars Sabrina Carpenter, Liza Koshy, and Jordan Fisher, set in contemporary North Carolina. The genre sits squarely in the teen comedy and dance drama arena, combining coming-of-age tropes with the energy of choreography battles and underdog triumphs.
The story follows Quinn Ackerman, a smart but awkward high school senior who, in an effort to boost her college application, lies about being part of her school’s award-winning dance team. When her lie gets out of control, Quinn is forced to form her own misfit crew to compete against the reigning champs. Along the way, she recruits Jake, a charismatic but disgraced former dancer, to help whip her group into shape. As they prepare for the competition, Quinn discovers more about herself, her true passions, and the meaning of teamwork.
One of the standout aspects of Work It is its charismatic cast. Sabrina, playing Quinn, brings a lot of warmth and relatability to her role. She captures the essence of an overachiever out of her depth, transitioning convincingly from a clumsy girl with two left feet to someone genuinely invested in dancing. Liza, as Quinn’s best friend Jas, lights up the screen with her comedic timing and confident moves, bringing a fresh burst of energy to every scene. Jordan, as Jake, balances charm with depth, portraying a character who is more than just a love interest. His chemistry with Sabrina feels genuine, and their evolving relationship adds a soft emotional core to the film.
The direction by Laura Terruso keeps the pace fast and light, ensuring the film doesn’t linger too long on any one moment. She skillfully balances the humorous elements with the dance sequences, ensuring that the tone stays upbeat. The editing, particularly in the dance montages, is sharp, cutting between shots of the team training, goofing around, and eventually pulling off complex routines. The choreography by Aakomon Jones is dynamic and lively, blending different dance styles from hip-hop to jazz, showcasing the versatility of the performers.
Another element that shines in Work It is its music. The soundtrack, filled with upbeat and motivational tracks, matches the film’s energetic vibe. Songs like “Let Me Move You” by Sabrina Carpenter and “Lottery” by K CAMP help keep the energy flowing, making the dance scenes even more engaging. The film also smartly uses music as a character development tool, with the evolution of the team’s dance style reflecting their personal growth.
Visually, the film captures the excitement of dance competitions through vibrant cinematography. Bright, neon-lit stages and slick camera movements during the dance battles immerse the viewer in the adrenaline-fueled atmosphere. Costume design is another area where the film impresses; each character’s wardrobe reflects their unique personality, especially as the team begins to find their own identity. From Quinn’s initially awkward outfits to her more confident, polished looks as the competition approaches, the wardrobe tells its own subtle story.
While Work It is not a film that pushes boundaries or offers any groundbreaking messages, it succeeds in being exactly what it intends to be: a fun, feel-good movie about self-discovery and the power of persistence. The plot is predictable at times, but the film’s charm lies in its execution rather than its originality. The theme of finding one’s passion and the courage to pursue it, even when you’re out of your comfort zone, resonates, especially for a young audience.
Overall, Work It is an enjoyable, light-hearted watch that offers enough humor, heart, and dance moves to keep viewers entertained. It may not redefine the teen dance genre, but it certainly stands tall within it, bolstered by strong performances, engaging choreography, and a killer soundtrack. If you’re looking for a film that will leave you tapping your feet and smiling by the end, this one is worth checking out.
