“Any Body Can Dance 2” (ABCD 2) explodes onto the screen as a sequel that not only matches but surpasses the original in sheer dance energy and visual spectacle. For fans of high-octane dance movies, and especially those who loved the first “Any Body Can Dance”, this Bollywood hip-hop extravaganza is a must-see. Building on the foundations of movies like “Step Up” and “Magic Mike”, ABCD 2 delivers a familiar underdog story, but elevates it with breathtaking choreography and a vibrant, over-the-top Bollywood flair.
Gravity Takes a Backseat: The Dance Spectacle
From the opening title sequence, featuring neon-clad dancers in dynamic, freeze-frame poses reminiscent of “Tron: The Musical”, ABCD 2 makes it clear that dance is the star. The movie plunges us into the world of competitive dance, showcasing a “So You Think You Can Dance?” style reality show where the Mumbai Stunners, led by Suresh and Vernon, initially wow the judges. However, their dreams are quickly dashed when they are unjustly disqualified for allegedly plagiarizing a Filipino dance team.
Blacklit performers in neon body suits leaping out of the screen in dynamic freeze-frame compositions
This setback sets the stage for a classic redemption story. The troupe, including the talented Vinnie, find themselves facing mockery and shame. For Suresh, the pressure is intensified by the legacy of his dancer mother. Enter Vishnu, the dance guru from the first film, played again by the charismatic Prabhudheva. Vishnu, initially found in a state of disillusionment, is the key to the Stunners’ comeback.
Star Power and Energetic Performances
Varun Dhawan as Suresh embodies the determined leader, while Shraddha Kapoor as Vinnie adds grace and energy to the group. The ensemble cast, including returning talents like Dharmesh Yelande and Punit Pathak, brings a diverse range of dance styles and personalities to the screen. Punit Pathak, in particular, shines as Vinod, a deaf-mute dancer who “feels” the music, adding an emotional layer to the high-energy performances.
One of the film’s most memorable sequences is the “Happy Hour” number. This bar scene, featuring Vishnu and the Mumbai Stunners, is a masterclass in choreography, playfully nodding to Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” with its innovative and captivating movements. The music throughout the film, by Sachin Sanghvi and Jigar Saraiya, perfectly complements the dance, driving the narrative forward with infectious beats and rhythms.
Costume Drama Red Carpet Fashion
Highlighting the Standout Dance Numbers
As the Mumbai Stunners prepare for the world hip-hop championship in Las Vegas, the movie takes us through auditions and training montages, classic tropes of the dance movie genre, but executed with Bollywood panache. The film truly reaches its peak during the Indian hip-hop nationals in Bangalore. In a visually stunning sequence, a dancer triggers a sprinkler system mid-performance, creating a rain-soaked dance spectacle that’s both breathtaking and unforgettable, reminiscent of the iconic “Singin’ in the Rain” but amplified with contemporary dance energy.
Taking the Dance to Vegas
The shift to Las Vegas for the world championship provides a new backdrop for the dance competition. While the narrative incorporates some lighthearted moments with customs officials and tourist sightseeing, the focus remains firmly on the dance. The movie builds towards the final competition, showcasing the Stunners’ journey through quarter-finals and beyond. Even with some predictable plot devices and minor pacing issues typical of Bollywood films, the film’s commitment to delivering spectacular dance sequences never wavers.
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Dance Enthusiasts
“Any Body Can Dance 2 Movie” may not break new ground in storytelling, but it delivers exactly what its target audience desires: an explosion of incredible dance. Director Remo D’Souza expertly captures the energy and dynamism of the performances, ensuring that viewers are fully immersed in the world of competitive hip-hop dance. While the plot serves primarily as a framework for the dance numbers, the sheer exuberance and skill on display make ABCD 2 a highly entertaining and visually captivating experience. For anyone looking for a movie that will leave them feeling energized and uplifted, “Any Body Can Dance 2” is a definite must-watch. It’s a celebration of dance that proves, indeed, anybody can dance.
