Go For It

Go For It is a gritty and passionate journey into the world of urban street dance that captures hardship and dreams of a young aspiring dancer. It is an inspiration-packed drama about personal growth, dedication, and overcoming adversity and challenges. Throughout its running time, the film presents a captivating and thrilling look into the mix of hip-hop and Latin dance scenes, along with a touching character study.

The film tells the story of the lively, full-of-heart Carmen Salgado, a first-generation Mexican-American living in downtown Chicago. Carmen is a passionate young woman with big dreams and aspirations for her future, who spends her days juggling her responsibilities between her demanding part-time jobs and attending the community college. One of her true passions still lies in the realm of street dance.

Carmen's passion for dancing is an essential aspect of her character. She spends her nights drenched in sweat, dancing in clubs throughout the city under the stage name ‘Passion’. Her extraordinary talent lies in freestyle hip-hop, and she often uses dance to escape from the pressures of everyday life.

However, when she is not dancing, Carmen faces numerous life challenges that seem to get in the way of her dreams. One unique aspect of the Go For It film is how it uses classic themes of intergenerational conflict, female empowerment, and the difficulties of coming of age in a culturally vibrant yet economically harsh neighborhood. Carmen is caught between the traditional expectations of her hardworking immigrant parents who dismiss her dreams, and her ambition to break out of her current life.

A major turning point in Carmen's life occurs when her professor at community college recognizes her potential and urges her to audition for a respected dance school in California. At first, Carmen hesitates. She fears rejection and is afraid of disappointing her family, which leads to an internal struggle.

Carmen's best friend, Gina, who supports and understands her quest for happiness, encourages Carmen to take this leap. The film dives into their friendship and their battles together, as they navigate life in a city that doesn’t always give them a fair chance. Their bond adds another layer to the film that presents an authentic depiction of lifelong female friendship.

The movie delivers many impassioned dance sequences that are interwoven into the story. The compelling dance routines are a mix of underground dance-offs and professional choreographies that highlight the fusion of Latin and hip-hop dance styles. They serve as visual metaphors for Carmen’s breakthroughs, her emotions, and her personal growth.

The lead actress, Aimee Garcia, has authentically portrayed Carmen's character by capturing her struggles, her resilience, and her tenacity. She embodies the struggle of young dreamers, and she conveys the rawness and authenticity needed for the role. The entire ensemble cast adds to the authenticity of the film with remarkable performances.

The two-time Sundance alum and writer-director of Go For It, Carmen Marron, uses her storytelling skills effectively to narrate this heartfelt tale. She artfully combines drama and dance that appeals to the audience's emotions. Marron’s own experiences of growing up in a Hispanic neighborhood in Chicago greatly inspire the film's narrative, contributing to its authenticity and depth.

Go For It also portrays the cultural vibrancy and diversity of Chicago, and it incorporates Spanish language use and Latinx cultural themes prominently through Carmen's family and community, adding richness to the storyline.

Overall, Go For It takes the audience through a stirring journey of determination, friendship, and passion. It presents a genuine, gripping, and earnest narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever dared to dream and overcome obstacles to achieve their goals. The film serves both as an invigorating dance drama and a touching story about trying your best, rising above your circumstances, and never giving up on your dreams.