More Serious Than Cutting Edge

Rating: 7/10 (13 January 2019)

18 May 2016. There isn't anything really new in this dance movie; nevertheless, it's definitely not boring nor a knockoff nor a clique. Julia Stiles does her stylistic performance as is her innate talent carries her throughout this movie. More like Oliansky's The Competition (1980) in somber tones regarding a piano competition than Glaser's The Cutting Edge (1992) with its more lighter, syrupy romance drama regarding an ice skating competition. The emotional knot with Stile's character's mother's dream is a humbling and strong theme that resonates throughout the movie.
There is plenty of creative and artful moves more so than in The Cutting Edge. Add the fascinating yet more subdued culture clashes reminiscent of The Princess Diaries (2001), Save The Last Dance offers a satisfying and entertaining experience worth the time and money.