Feel the Beat

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

movie2020Comedy, Drama

58%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

Broadway wannabe trains small-town kid dancers in this utterly predictable but harmless Netflix dance flick.

6.3/10

53%

55%

→

Feel the Beat

movie

G, 2020, Comedy, Drama

58%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

Broadway wannabe trains small-town kid dancers in this utterly predictable but harmless Netflix dance flick.

6.3

53%

Jump to

Also rated on

6.3/10

53%

View →

Where to Watch

Loading streaming options...

Where-to-watch data byJustWatch

Screenwise Verdict

Look, this is Netflix algorithm content at its most Netflix-y: safe, inoffensive, utterly predictable, and completely forgettable. It won't hurt anyone, but it also won't stick with anyone.

The 53% critic score and 2.6/5 on Letterboxd tell the real story—this is a movie that exists to fill a slot in the 'family dance movie' category without taking any risks or offering anything fresh. If your kid is really into dance and needs something to watch on a rainy afternoon, sure. But don't expect anyone to be quoting lines from this or rewatching it.

The wholesome messages are there (teamwork! perseverance! helping others!), but they're delivered with all the subtlety of a sledgehammer and none of the charm that makes those lessons actually land. It's the cinematic equivalent of a participation trophy—technically accomplishing its goal, but not exactly inspiring.

Age Fit

Best for ages 8-13 who are into dance, performance, or underdog competition stories. Common Sense Media's age 10 recommendation feels right—younger kids might not connect with the career failure themes, while teens will likely find it too juvenile and predictable.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Classic redemption arc with a self-centered protagonist learning to care about others. Models teamwork, perseverance, and community connection. The 'misfit group of young dancers' setup promotes acceptance and cooperation. Some emotional tension around failure and returning home in defeat, but ultimately positive messaging about second chances and finding purpose beyond personal ambition.

Imaginative

Dance competition formula is well-worn territory with minimal originality. The 'failed Broadway star returns to small town' is a paint-by-numbers setup. Dance sequences offer some creative expression, but the story doesn't invite viewer imagination or exploration—it's a passive viewing experience following a predictable underdog sports template. Letterboxd's 2.6/5 and mixed critical reception (53% RT) suggest it doesn't transcend its genre conventions.

Safe

Common Sense Media rates it for age 10, suggesting family-friendly content. No indication of violence, gore, sexual content, or disturbing themes. The main 'risks' are emotional: dealing with failure, disappointment, and the protagonist's initial selfishness. Some mild tension around competition pressure. Netflix family content is generally well-vetted. No surprise traumatic content expected in this genre.

Enriching

Offers lessons about resilience after failure, the value of mentorship, and finding meaning in helping others rather than chasing fame. Dance elements showcase dedication and practice. However, the execution appears mediocre based on audience scores (55% RT audience, 6.3 IMDb)—suggesting the messages don't land with particular depth or memorability. It's enriching in a 'vegetables hidden in mac and cheese' way: technically nutritious but not exactly inspiring.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Safe family viewing with zero content concerns—you can leave the room without worry
Dance sequences showcase the work and dedication behind performance, which could inspire kids interested in the arts
Positive messaging about finding purpose in helping others rather than chasing personal glory
Celebrates 'misfit' kids and shows a diverse group working together toward a common goal

⚠

What to Watch For

The protagonist starts out pretty unlikeable and self-centered—some kids might need context that character growth is the point
Competition pressure and fear of failure are themes throughout
It's aggressively formulaic—if your kid has seen any dance/sports underdog movie, they've essentially seen this

Conversation Starters

"April had to deal with a big failure and start over. Have you ever had something not work out the way you hoped?"
"Why do you think teaching the kids ended up mattering more to April than being on Broadway?"
"What do you think makes a good teacher or coach? What did April do well or not so well?"
"If you could learn any type of dance or performance skill, what would it be?"

Stills