Gotta Kick it Up

About Gotta Kick it Up

Gotta Kick It Up is a spirited family comedy-drama movie, released in 2002, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of a marginalized group of girls at Marshall Middle School. The movie centers around the school's dance team, facing what appears to be the end of their existence with the retirement of their former coach, until, a new biology teacher, Ms. Bartlett steps in as the replacement. With this fresh start, the group experiences a disastrous first competition, which becomes a pivotal point in redirecting their efforts. Undeterred, they decide to participate in a subsequent competition without official school or parental permission, thereby risking the new-found relationship with their coach. The journey unfolds as they juggle complex relationship issues, failing grades, low self-esteem, and financial constraints but their "Sí, se puede" attitude keeps them striving for success, leading them through to the finals.

Making / Production

The film is a Disney Channel Original Movie, produced by Christopher Morgan and directed by Ramón Menéndez. The script, penned by Meghan Cole and Nancy De Los Santos, draws poignant attention to the power of teamwork, resilience and mutual respect.

Actors

• Camille Guaty as Daisy - She plays the determined team captain, displaying remarkable leadership amid adversity.
• America Ferrera as Yolanda - Getting into the role of the dedicated dancer, she courageously balances team efforts with personal challenges.
• Susan Egan as Ms. Bartlett - As the homeroom biology teacher and reluctant new coach, she effectively portrays the transformation from wary newcomer to committed advocate for her team.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The phrase "Sí, se puede", regularly used in the movie, is Spanish for "Yes, we can". This saying illuminates the core message of perseverance central to the film's theme.
• Gotta Kick It Up marks one of the earlier film roles for America Ferrera, who would later achieve fame for her lead role in 'Ugly Betty'.

Quotes

• "Dancing expresses what words can't."
• "This is our time, our chance to shine."
• "Sí, se puede!"

Music, Soundtrack

• "Believe" by Yolanda Adams
• "Get Into Something" by Jennifer Love Hewitt
• "Cada ves que" by Karyna