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Fame flashy but weak

In an era where singing and dancing teens are a hot commodity, it was only a matter of time before someone decided to resurrect 80s classic, Fame.
Directed by Tanchareon and written by Allison Burnett, this updated version is highly entertaining but largely unoriginal. With big shoes to fill, the film introduces a brand new cast of characters as they seek happiness, success and — you guessed it — fame.
Set once again at the New York High School of Performing Arts, the film follows the lives of several artistic teenagers from freshman year to graduation as they learn to become better performers.
Opening with a collage of scenes from the rigorous audition process, these talented singers, actors, dancers, filmmakers and musicians are quickly warned this is only the beginning. They must give both their artistic training and the academic studies all they’ve got — or it’s all over.
The film then moves through a series of somewhat predictable story lines involving romance, friendship, struggles and fighting against the restricting expectations of others.
With resemblances to many dance films of this decade — High School Musical comes to mind — the film comes dangerously close to being merely a compilation of past plotlines. However, it’s saved by some surprising moments that expose the harsh realities of the entertainment industry and the devastation that comes with the realization you may not be good enough to reach your dreams.
Unfortunately the pace of the film leaves a lot to be desired. We are given only glimpses into the characters’ lives as the film sacrifices detail in order to fast-forward through four years of high school. We often know little about their personal lives, and at times may even be hard-pressed to remember some of their names.
However, where the film is lacking in originality and character development it makes up for in its showcasing of genuine talent. Several of the most entertaining moments are the interludes that mix classical music with hip-hop and pop while showing off the remarkable talents of the film’s dancers and choreographers. The performance quality is high — there are few cheesy dance moves or inspirational songs.

Like all films of its genre, Fame ends with the encouraging message to be yourself and go after your dreams. While it might not live up to the original, it may still leave you wishing — talent or no talent – that you’d gone to a school just like theirs.

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