Gotta Kick It Up!

Gotta Kick It Up! is a 2002 American sports comedy-drama film released as a Disney Channel Original Movie.^[1] In the United States, it debuted on July 26, 2002. It is based on a true story of a middle school dance team. The film was directed by Ramón Menéndez.^[2]

Gotta Kick It Up!
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Teleplay by	Nancy De Los Stantos Ramón Menéndez Tom Musca Stu Krieger
Story by	Meghan Cole Nancy De Los Santos
Directed by	Ramón Menéndez
Starring	Camille Guaty America Ferrera Susan Egan Jhoanna Flores Suilma Rodriguez Sabrina Wiener
Theme music composer	Craig Safan
Country of origin	United States
Original language	English
Production
Producer	Christopher Morgan
Cinematography	Clark Mathis
Editor	Nancy Richardson
Running time	78 minutes
Original release
Network	Disney Channel
Release	July 26, 2002 (2002-07-26)

Plot

At Marshall Middle School, a cohort of Latina middle schoolers embarks on their educational journey with a passion for dance. Their aspirations intersect with the arrival of a biology instructor, Ms. Bartlett, a youthful new teacher. However, amidst their fervor for dance, the students struggle to maintain focus in their academic pursuits, prompting an announcement that the school's dance team would not be formed that year.

Undeterred, the girls showcase their dance talents to Ms. Bartlett, only to receive the disappointing news of the team's cancellation. Witnessing their crestfallen spirits, Ms. Bartlett undergoes a transformation, assuming the role of coach to guide and support the girls in their dance endeavors. Determined to prove their readiness for competition and revive the dance festival, the girls, under Ms. Bartlett's mentorship, embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Guided by the empowering mantra "si se puede," the young Latina dancers navigate societal barriers through their collective artistry. Through perseverance and dedication, they transcend obstacles, reclaiming their agency and identity while revitalizing their dance troupe. Ms. Bartlett's mentorship becomes instrumental in not only honing their dance skills but also instilling confidence and resilience, empowering the girls to overcome adversities and shine on stage.^[3]

Cast

• Camille Guaty as Daisy Salinas
• America Ferrera as Yolanda "Yoli" Vargas
• Jhoanna Flores as Alyssa Cortez
• Suilma Rodriguez as Marisol
• Sabrina Wiener as Esmeralda Reyna
• Miguel Sandoval as Principal Zavala
• Erik Alexander Gavica as "Chuy"
• Susan Egan as Heather Bartlett
• Elizabeth Sung as Ms. Kim
• Gina Gallego as Mrs. Cortez
• Gerry Del Sol as Mr. Cortez
• Valente Rodriguez as Mr. Reyna
• Anita Ortega as Mrs. Reyna
• Yvonne Farrow as Lynell Elliott
• Ulises Cuadra as Segura