Sugar Plum Twist

Lately Hallmark has often been accused of going woke. For many, this movie will be another example of that. I prefer to look at their recent lineups of movies as having some that educate about and celebrate different ethnic cultures that are all around many of us. It is interesting, however, that this story is set in Richmond, VA where the Hispanic population is a fairly small percentage.

This movie explores two things related to cultural diversity. One issue is the difficulties some minority performers face in classic performing arts. Another is the question of including new cultural ideas into these traditional cultural activities,

We have Ms. Kat who stands for all the traditional or classic norms in a big-time ballet production company, especially as it regards a production of the Nutcracker. And then there are Natalia and Vivi. They represent minority performers in a world many assume doesn't give minorities enough opportunity to shine.

And it goes deeper. Passion is always important in Hallmark and other similar TV movies. Natalia tells Vivi that her performances must have passion. And to be truly fair to the performer, she needs the opportunity to explore her own cultural background in her performances. So, Natalia choreographs the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy in a Latin style similar to Salsa. Her objective is to give Vivi something to put in her performance reels.

This movie also explores where does an iconic performer (or sports hero) go when their body is no longer fit for the actual performance?

And we have two simultaneous romances. Both are secondary plot threads.

There is plenty of sappiness and a little melodrama. And lots of dancing.

The acting was good across the board. The dancing looked good to me, both classic and Latin. The result is an upbeat movie that also explores cultural issues.