Once when I was in the fourth year, one of my teachers; my math teacher in particular, told us to present our learnings from the previous discussions on college algebra. She told us to apply our own multiple intelligences.   Hence, this really forced us to think outside the box.  We thought of various ideas but after a while we were able to come up with quite an interesting idea.   We finally decided to apply our previous topics into a dance.

         While watching the film, I was reminded of that experience. It was  similar to what my  classmates and I did in our fourth year, the two main characters in the movie had to think outside the box as well for a better routine.   Since I had already gone through this, it wasn’t difficult for me to relate to the situation.

          The character I believe I can indentify with the most is that of Tyler.   At first, he didn’t aspire for anything.  He didn’t have any dreams but then after being exposed to the dancing activities in the Arts School, he realized that he wanted to take part of it as well.   And when he discovered this, he strived hard to prove that he was adequate enought to enter the school.  Like him, I didn’t use to be concerned with my grades. However, after realizing where it could get me, I also decided to struggle to achieve high marks.

          In the movie,     I enjoyed watching the last segment the most.   The scene where in Tyler (Chaning Tatum)  and Nora (Jenna Dewan)  presented their final act for the recital; when they mixed traditional ballet with hip hop it was really entertaining seeing these students come up with a really unique performance.    Through that presentation, the students were able to showcase their tatlents.

         In my opinion, the movie’s theme is “going for  your dreams through thinking outside the box”.    This theme also embodies what I learned from the film.   It showed me how determination really helps you achieve your goals.   I saw this characteristic in Nora, who was willing to perform with a new partner, than with a previous one.    And when everything didnlt turn out right, whe was nevertheless prepared to have her recital all on her own.   She carried the burden in her own shoulder and became resourceful and independent.    All the circumstances which could have been an obstacle,    she facedthem all  in order to execute her performance successfully.

         Like I mentioned earlier, I found that there was a great deal of thinking outside the box in the movie.   Aside from seeing the two main characters use this concept in creating a new routine;   I also saw it in other parts ofthe film as well.    When Miles, the young African American student, completed a new piece of music; I saw that he didn;t let it remain within the four walls of strict ballet.     I also identified a lot of creativity in the scenes when the students were having a party.    They danced in unison and didn’t party like how people would normally do at night clubs.   In the party, they were also able to chowcase a few of their talents while having fun.

    On the whole,   I think that Step up is a great movie.  I believe that it is really worth watching because it shows relevance of dance in  reality.  Also, I think that is is a good movie because I agained some realizations fron it’s theme.  I learned that I must be determined in striving for my aspirations.   I learned as well, that I must not be confined into thinking wihtin the four walls of strucure in creating new ideas.

.. this paper was submitted by nicole sandoval – PETWODA class 2nd trim 2007-08

thank you!