Before getting to the actual review, I must confess; that I haven't seen the first two Step Up movies. I'm told it doesn't matter though, because none of the others have a whole lot to do with the other. Step Up 3D tells the story of an aspiring film maker and dance enthusiast (played by Rick Malambri) whom--with the aid of a gifted troupe of kids with as much hunger as talent, set about saving a beloved old urban dance hall from its debtors by winning a prestigious dance competition. And in turn transcend their own bleak circumstances with a brand of hyper-physical break-dancing that is the films true star.

Step Up 3D won't win any screenwriting awards, and while hardly memorable in terms of characterizations and so-called plot, I found myself somewhat entertained by it for the following reasons. Firstly, it's virtually harmless. Secondly, there are some really terrific dance numbers in it. Thirdly, the 3D really works (this film was actually shot with 3D cameras and you will notice the difference). And finally, there's a charming dance piece in the middle of the film that is--dare I say it--sort of magical. This particular piece features Adam G. Sevani (an appealing fellow who kind of looks like a young version of Howard Stern) and adorable Alyson Stoner engaging in a single shot dance sequence that pays homage to the song and dance numbers of yesteryear (i.e. Singin' in the Rain). Step Up 3D as a whole tends to play like an extended commercial for Fox's So You Think You Can Dance (this flick even features familiar faces from that famed show--faces like Twitch and Legacy), but that shouldn't bother anyone. The dancing is the reason most folks will come to see the movie. Step Up 3D evokes the same cheesy but lively spirit of those wacky Breakin' movies from the 80's only now, the dancing and choreography have greatly evolved. This is hardly a classic, but it was certainly better than what I was expecting.