What is the difference between a gang and a team? DJ Williams (Columbus Short) is forced to confront this question, along with the usual post-adolescent romantic and family conflicts, when his well-meaning uncle (Harry Lennix) enrolls him at his Atlanta alma mater, Truth University. His enrollment is part of a plea bargain that will save him from being imprisoned, and it is also a last resort to rescue him from the LA gang life that has already claimed his beloved brother. An avid and remarkably gifted hip-hop dancer, DJ is quickly solicited by two fraternities who want to make use of his skills on their respective step teams. DJ resists at first, equating fraternities and stepping as stultifying, upper-class activities.

Eventually DJ warms to the underdog fraternity and, with his amazing krumping, clowning, and breaking, transforms the team. More importantly, the team transforms him, providing a creative outlet and a character-building support network that help cushion the blows life keeps dealing. While the drama incorporates many overly familiar themes and subplots, the main hook is the spectacular step dancing, shot in a dynamic, quick-cut style that emphasizes the muscularity, inventiveness, and stirring teamwork required. The final quotation from Dr. Martin Luther King drives home the film's message: "Intelligence plus character--that is the goal of true education."

Theatrical Release: January 12, 2007

UMD Features:
Note: This release is in the UMD format for Sony PSP players only.

Anamorphic - 1.78
Audio:
Dolby Digital 2.0 - English, French/Parisian
Subtitles - English, French/Parisian - Optional

Columbus Short: Actor, STEPPIN' (2007)
Meagan Good: 
Laz Alonso: American Actor, LEPRECHAUN: BACK 2 THA HOOD (2003)
Harry J. Lennix: Actor/"Mo' Money"
Jermaine Williams: Actor, FAT ALBERT (2004)
Brian White: American Actor, ME & MRS. JONES (2001)
 Ne-Yo: R&B Artist/ Actor

Sylvain White: Director, STEPPIN' (2007)

William Packer: Screenwriter, TROIS (2000)
Porter Verselft III: Producer, STOMP THE YARD, (2007)

Robert Adetuyi: TURN IT UP
Gregory Anderson: screenwriter, STOMP THE YARD, (2007)

David Checel: Editor, STOMP THE YARD, (2007)

3 stars out of 5 -- "[The film] benefits from the high-energy dance moves, which add a vital pulse..."
3 stars out of 5 -- "[With] strong performances and a discreetly inspiring message....The humor and talent of its cast keep the popcorn enjoyment high."