Turn It Loose - The Real Street Dance

Turn It Loose - The Real Street Dance is an electrifying documentary from 2009 that plunges viewers headfirst into the fiery and passionate world of breakdancing. This documentary showcases an eclectic mix of personalities and talents from all corners of the globe, most notably featuring Ronnie Abaldonado, Kim Hong-Yeol, and Taisuke Nonaka. A vivid tapestry of hip hop culture and urban life, Turn It Loose shatters any preexisting misconceptions about this intense dance style and its practitioners, presenting the compelling stories behind each dancer’s passion and drive.

At the heart of Turn It Loose’s narrative is a fierce competition: the Red Bull BC One, a legendary international break-dancing contest held annually to determine who the best B-boy dancer in the world is. The film begins shortly before the 2007 Red Bull BC One competition in Johannesburg, South Africa. It follows the preparation and journey of six of its competitors, taking us from the bustling streets of Senegal and Japan to the graffiti-stained walls of Las Vegas and the vastly different cultural landscapes of Korea and France.

Featured prominently in the documentary is Ronnie Abaldonado from Las Vegas, a member of the 'Super Crew', known for his powerful moves and kinetic style. From Japan comes Taisuke Nonaka, a young breakdance prodigy whose immense dedication to his art form comes through in every acrobatic flip and spin he executes. Representing South Korea, we have Kim Hong-Yeol, better known as Hong 10, whose seamless blend of precision, fluidity, and inventiveness earns him respect on and off the breaking stage.

Turn It Loose illuminates the many dimensions of these performers’ lives, giving us intimate glimpses into their daily routines and personal challenges. The documentary evolves beyond mere displays of remarkable athleticism and skill, probing deeper into complex issues of poverty, class, identity, and cultural barriers. It highlights the universal struggles and aspirations faced by these performers as they strive to turn their passion for dance into a sustainable lifestyle, battling head to head with some of the world's top talent, while navigating the world of show business.

Beyond individual stories, the film also deftly explores the larger narrative of breakdancing. It delves into the nuances of this powerful dance form, the superhuman technical skill it demands, and its evolution from the streets of New York in the 70s to a globally recognized art form with competitions held worldwide. It dances between being a fascinating piece of cultural anthropology and being a thrilling sports documentary.

However, underneath the thrilling dance battles, behind-the-scenes drama, and captivating personal narratives, Turn It Loose is a testament to the universal human spirit – the drive to achieve greatness and express oneself through art and movement. It shows us aspiring artists who rise above their circumstances, dedicating countless hours to perfecting their craft, sacrificing comfort, and often challenging society’s conventions to fulfill their dream.

Shot in a variety of exciting urban environments — from the expansive skyline of Las Vegas to the vibrant streets of Seoul — Turn It Loose is visually stunning, capturing the kinetic energy of each powerful move, every expressive gesture. The visual feast is perfectly complemented by the adrenaline-pumping hip hop soundtrack, delivering not just a visual, but a sensory appreciation for the art form.

Turn It Loose - The Real Street Dance will captivate not only fans of breakdancing, but anyone interested in vibrant storytelling. Its engaging narrative, characterized by determination, passion, camaraderie, and the struggle of the human spirit, will keep you on the edge of your seat till the final dance-off. It's an exhilarating whirlwind tour of a form of self-expression that has transformed lives and continues to bring disparate cultures closer together. Whether a dance enthusiast or not, this documentary offers an immersive exploration of a unique dance culture that will leave you inspired.