This is a movie you could take one of two ways: you could dismiss it or you can enjoy it. I really enjoyed it. The story has been told before, as a matter of fact, I thought the dance competition was similar to Farah Khan’s “Happy New Year” but without the heist and with way better dancers. But its summer and who wants to think too much – I was thoroughly entertained.
Suru (Varun Dhawan) heads a Hip Hop dance troupe that has been disqualified from a tv competition for copying another group’s moves. Disgraced and depressed, most of the team quits except for Vinnie (Shraddha Kapoor). In order to redeem himself in the dance world, Suru determines to enter a team in a global dance competition being held in Las Vegas. As luck would have it, he meets an alcoholic super dancer (Prabhu Dheva)and convinces Vishnu Sir to coach his struggling team. Then follows try-outs with some unusual and talented dancers – practice, practice, practice – the glitz and glamour of Vegas, and teams from all over the world.
There are minor twists and turns in the script, all too gentle to cause any real drama. For example, injured during one of the rehearsals, Vinnie is replaced by Olive (Lauren Gottlieb). As Olive and Suru get to know each other better in rehearsal, a teeny, tiny bit of jealousy sparks in Vinnie. Another example, Vishnu Sir has a major moral breakdown when he gets to Vegas. But, no worries, both situations are soon set aright in time for the finals. “ABCD 2” is strictly about dance, and the story never gets in the way.
The heart of “ABCD 2” is dance and music. Director/choreographer Remo DeSouza impresses with at least ten-song/dance numbers, from Shraddha’s soulful “Sun Saathiya”, and Varun’s expressive contemporary dance “Chunar”, to Prabhu Dheva‘s quirky “Happy Hour“. Composers Sachin-Jigar songs cover a wide variety of themes from religious worship, patriotism, pop, and party. Cinematographer Vijay Arora visuals capture the dances perfectly. Last, but not least, Varun and Shraddha’s understated acting worked well for the movie. You root for them because they are basically sweet, gentle people and hard-working dancers. Their emotional energy is saved for the dance competition.
“ABCD 2” is a family-friendly film produced by Disney India.
Sounds cool. I love dance movies. How was this in 3D?
Love dance competition movies! I’ll check it out. How was the 3D?
but the title is too much like ABDC – America’s Best Dance Crew which is on Saturdays with Mario Lopez hosting.
Maria! Did you find my review on your cell phone? It was in 3D, but I only saw 2D. The movie title stands for “Any Body Can Dance” and its definitely a mood lifting movie.
It’s still at the Regal.