Save the Last Dance (2001) Review in 2024
Save the Last Dance is a romantic drama film that tells the story of a white girl who falls in love with a black boy in a rough Chicago neighborhood.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for teenagers and adults, but parental discretion is advised due to some mature themes and language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for its engaging story, well-developed characters, and impressive dance scenes. It's a great choice for fans of romance and drama films.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film follows Sara Johnson, a white girl who transfers to a predominantly black high school in Chicago, where she meets Derek Reynolds, a talented dancer. As they spend more time together, they face opposition from Sara's father and Derek's friends, but their love for each other eventually prevails.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and relatable, but it follows a predictable arc. The film explores themes of love, racism, and identity, but it doesn't delve too deeply into these issues.
acting9.00/10
The acting is excellent, especially from Julia Stiles and Sean Patrick Thomas. They bring a lot of chemistry to their roles, and their performances are convincing and nuanced.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and likable, especially Sara and Derek. The supporting characters, such as Derek's friends and Sara's father, add depth to the story, but some of them feel underdeveloped.
direction7.00/10
The direction is competent, but it doesn't bring anything new to the table. The pacing is well-balanced, and the film's tone is consistent, but some scenes feel rushed or dragged out.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is impressive, especially in the dance scenes. The film's use of color and lighting is effective in conveying the characters' emotions and the film's themes.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's themes of love, racism, and identity are timely and relevant. The dance scenes are impressive and energetic. The chemistry between Julia Stiles and Sean Patrick Thomas is undeniable.
Cons
The story is predictable, and some characters feel underdeveloped. The direction is competent but unremarkable. The film's tone can be inconsistent at times.
Notable Quotes
"Love is like a dance. It's all about the steps you take together."
"You can't just give up on something because it's hard."
