HIGH STRUNG (2015)

Genre: Music/Romance
Director: Michael Damian
Cast: Ian Eastwood, Jane Seymour, Sonoya Mizuno, David Lipper
Runtime: 1 hr 37 mins
Rating: PG
Released By: Shaw 
Official Website: 

Opening Day: 14 April 2016

Synopsis: When a hip hop violinist busking in the New York subway encounters a classical dancer on scholarship at the Manhattan Conservatory of the Arts, sparks fly. With the help of a hip hop dance crew they must find a common ground while preparing for a competition that could change their lives forever.

Movie Review:

High Strung is yet another dance movie out in the market. It attempts to cut through the noise by combining classical music and dance elements with the contemporary parts. The idea is kind of appealing and fresh, but unfortunately it was not fleshed out to the best it could be.

The story follows Johnnie (played by Nicholas Galitzine), a thriving violinist who is trying to break out of classical conventions to make a living on his own in New York. He does so by basking regularly at the New York subway. Thanks to fate and serendipity, he crossed paths with Ruby (played by Keenan Kampa), a talented dancer who is about to start her new life and pursuit of dance at the Manhattan Conservatory of the Arts.

As we all know, it is often a fool-proof and sure-win formula to assemble an attractive male lead, with an equally charming female lead, and have them fall in love passionately. Predictably, High Strung uses this formula as well. While it’s nice to watch a good looking like them, there was not much thought in the romantic sequences. They are so cheesy and awkward that it makes you squirm in your seat and laugh embarrassingly for what’s being put on screen.

Nonetheless, the cast of the movie was reasonably well selected. Nicholas Galitzine fit in to the emo, moody and melancholic look, while Keenan Kampa, a professional ballerina, nailed it as the female lead. Not forgetting Sonoya Mizuno who played the role of Ruby’s roommate, who is very pretty and pleasing to the eye too. With regards to the dance sequences, there is not much to nitpick at as Keenan Kampa charms you immensely with her moves. It’s a pity though, that the cuts and angles do not do the dance moves credit. For instance, the finale dance was supposed to be an electrifying and dramatic performance. However the not-so-impressive framing of the performance only hinder both the climax and the build up.

Whilst having a buff and attractive male lead and a slender and pretty female lead seem to be the undying recipe for a teen show such as High Strung, it will satiate your senses only if you’re looking for a passable, feel-good dance movie. 

Movie Rating:

(Strictly for your viewing pleasure, and nothing more)

Review by Tho Shu Ling