High Strung (2016) Review: A Dance-Driven Romance with Energetic Flair
Introduction
“High Strung” (2016), directed by Michael Damian, is a lively dance drama that intertwines romance and competitive dancing. Starring Keenan Kampa, Nicholas Galitzine, and Jane Seymour, the film captures the excitement and intensity of the dance world while exploring themes of ambition, love, and artistic expression. With its engaging choreography and heartfelt performances, “High Strung” offers an entertaining and inspiring viewing experience.
In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s plot, themes, and performances, and provide information on where you can stream or purchase “High Strung” online in the U.S.
Plot Overview
“High Strung” centers around Ruby (Keenan Kampa), a talented ballet dancer who dreams of becoming a principal dancer at a prestigious ballet company. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Johnnie (Nicholas Galitzine), a charismatic street musician with a passion for his craft. Despite their different backgrounds, Ruby and Johnnie find themselves drawn to each other, forming a connection that defies their individual goals.
The film follows Ruby and Johnnie as they navigate their careers and their budding romance. As Ruby prepares for a crucial ballet audition and Johnnie strives to make a name for himself as a musician, their relationship faces challenges and obstacles. The plot weaves together their personal and professional struggles, showcasing their journey towards achieving their dreams while supporting each other.
The dance sequences play a central role in the film, featuring a mix of classical ballet and contemporary dance styles. The choreography, performed by the cast and choreographed by Joe Lanteri, adds energy and excitement to the story, reflecting the characters’ passion and dedication.
Themes and Emotional Impact
“High Strung” explores themes of ambition, love, and artistic expression. The film highlights the dedication required to pursue a career in the arts and the sacrifices that come with it. Ruby’s journey emphasizes the challenges of balancing personal relationships with professional aspirations, while Johnnie’s story underscores the importance of staying true to one’s passion.
The emotional impact of the film is enhanced by its focus on the characters’ growth and their evolving relationship. The romantic storyline adds depth to the narrative, and the dance sequences serve as a powerful expression of the characters’ emotions and desires.
The film also addresses the theme of overcoming obstacles and pursuing one’s dreams against the odds. Ruby and Johnnie’s struggles and triumphs resonate with viewers, making the film both inspiring and relatable.
Performances and Direction
Keenan Kampa delivers a strong performance as Ruby, capturing the character’s determination, grace, and vulnerability. Kampa’s background as a ballet dancer adds authenticity to her portrayal, and her dance performances are a highlight of the film.
Nicholas Galitzine brings charisma and energy to his role as Johnnie, showcasing his talent as both an actor and a musician. Galitzine’s chemistry with Kampa adds depth to their romantic storyline and enhances the film’s emotional impact.
Michael Damian’s direction effectively combines dance and romance, creating a visually engaging and emotionally resonant film. Damian’s approach to storytelling balances the film’s dance sequences with its romantic and dramatic elements, resulting in a well-rounded and entertaining experience.
The screenplay, written by Damian and Janeen Damian, is engaging and provides a solid foundation for the film’s themes and character development. The dialogue and plot progression support the story’s emotional and narrative arcs, making for a compelling and enjoyable film.
Cinematography and Music
The cinematography by David C. Wilson captures the energy and elegance of the dance sequences, using dynamic camera angles and lighting to enhance the visual impact. Wilson’s work adds to the film’s overall appeal and helps convey the intensity of the characters’ performances.
The film’s score, composed by Sean Michael Murray and featuring a mix of classical and contemporary music, complements the dance sequences and adds to the film’s emotional resonance. The music reinforces the film’s themes and enhances the overall viewing experience.
Where to Watch “High Strung” Online in the U.S.
For those interested in watching “High Strung,” here are some options to consider for streaming, rental, or purchase in the U.S.:
Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video: “High Strung” is available to stream with an Amazon Prime subscription, making it accessible for those with Prime memberships.
Rental and Purchase Options:
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent “High Strung” in HD for approximately $3.99 or purchase it for around $14.99, depending on availability.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film may be available for rent or purchase on Google Play, with rental options starting at $3.99 and purchase prices around $14.99.
- Apple iTunes: On iTunes, “High Strung” can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $14.99. The film is available in HD, with the option to download for offline viewing.
- Vudu: Vudu offers both rental and purchase options for “High Strung,” with similar pricing to other platforms. The film supports HDX viewing for high-quality playback.
Conclusion
“High Strung” (2016) is an energetic and engaging dance drama that combines romance, ambition, and artistic expression. With its captivating performances, dynamic choreography, and heartfelt story, the film provides an entertaining and inspiring viewing experience.
Whether you are interested in its dance sequences, its exploration of love and ambition, or its blend of romance and drama, “High Strung” delivers a memorable and enjoyable film. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to access this lively and charming movie and experience its vibrant energy.
