How She Move

Released in January 2007, the Canadian drama film How She Move is an energetic, uplifting, and finely-crafted tale about determination, family ties, and the power of dance. The motion picture targets not only the dance-movie enthusiasts but also anyone who loves a compelling story of struggle, ambition and self-discovery.

The film stars the talented Rutina Wesley in the lead role as Raya Green, a young woman with brilliant academic achievements who has to return home to her working-class family after her sister's death from drug overdose leaves her family unable to afford the tuition. Raya was previously studying at a prestigious private school in hopes of getting into medical school, but after returning home, she is back within the confines of Toronto's gritty Jane-Finch community.

Raya, facing the harsh realities of her environment, is eager to get back into her previous school, escape her circumstances, and secure a successful future by becoming a medical professional. However, she finds herself caught in the old neighborhood routines with very little chance to display her bright mind and prove that she is more than her surroundings.

Drumming with an underlying beat of change, the film introduces Raya to the vibrant world of Step dancing, an aggressive and energetic dance style originated from African tribes, high school fraternities, and suspenseful challenge 'step' battles, as a way out of her dilemma. The movie portrays how Raya's passion for dance emerges as a beacon of hope for her future.

One of the more engrossing characters in the film is her childhood friend, Bishop, played by Dwain Murphy, leader of the Jane Street Junta crew, who plays a significant role in her re-introduction to the local step-dancing scene. Here, Raya sees an opportunity to win a step dancing competition with a significant cash prize that can fund her tuition to Med. School.

Rutina Wesley brilliantly portrays a young woman filled with dreams, vulnerabilities, and fierce determination. Her portrayal of the ambitious Raya Green is marked with a true sense of hope and strength. The Step Up sequence is a visual and exciting spectacle that literally vibrates the screen, showing Wesley's impressive physical discipline and athletic prowess.

Tre Armstrong offers an equally compelling performance in her role as Michelle, a snappy character offering a much-needed counter-balance to Raya's focused ambition. Armstrong's vibrant performance brings a sense of reality and raw edginess in her dealings with Raya and their shared world of Step. The chemistry between Rutina Wesley and Tre Armstrong on screen is palpable, almost like a rhythm created by their characters.

Director Ian Iqbal Rashid has truly managed to produce a dynamic and socially aware drama, working from a script written by Annmarie Morais, who infuses the story with raw authenticity based on her own experiences of growing up in a similar neighborhood in Toronto. How She Move offers a refreshing departure from familiar genres, successfully weaving dance sequences, drama, and a bit of hard-edge reality complete with emotional rollercoasters and displays of magnificent dance.

The cinematography is stunning, with gritty urban scenes and dynamic dance battles captured in a memorable and poignant manner. Key to the film's appeal is its exceptional choreography. Hi-Hat, the renowned choreographer, has given the dance sequences and battles a highly pulsating, brutal, yet beautiful touch, providing a visual feast for the audience.

The film, while highlighting dance, explores a range of deeper themes like courage, struggle, ambition, perseverance, family bonds, and personal integrity. How She Move is a film filled with passion, talent, and determination, articulating a narrative that resonates beyond the dance scenes and touches upon the human spirit striving to rise above adversity.

In conclusion, How She Move is a powerful, rhythm-steeped drama that allows the viewers to invest emotionally in Raya’s struggle while being thoroughly entertained by the grandiose dance sequences. The movie is a testament to determination, dreams, and the strength of human spirit. So, whether you're a fan of dance movies or simply like gritty dramas centered around personal triumph against all odds, How She Move is a must-watch film.