Movie Review

“Stomp the Yard” directed by Sylvain White

Rating: Four out of Five Stars

I expected the movie “Stomp the Yard” to be a pound-hitting, street-grooving musical that was a spin-off of last year’s “Step Up.” Surprisingly (and fortunately), this film was the least bit like a sappy wannabe Disney musical. “Stomp the Yard” tells the story of DJ (Columbus Short), a young, black male who relocates to Atlanta from Los Angeles after the death of his brother, Duron (Chris Brown). DJ ends up living with his Aunt Jackie (Valarie Pettiford) and Uncle Noel (Jermaine Williams), and attends Truth University, where he takes classes and works as a gardener to help pay for his education.

While at Truth, DJ is brushed with “luck” when he is recruited by local fraternities to “step” for them. DJ initially refuses, but ultimately becomes persuaded to join Theta Nu Theta after being sold on the idea that fraternities are based on brotherhood. In the midst of this, he becomes enthralled with a local cutie, April (Meagan Good), the Dean’s daughter. April’s disapproving boyfriend, Grant (Darrin DeWitt Henson) — who also is the leader of a rival fraternity Mu Gamma Xi — bumps heads with DJ and tries everything in his power to get him expelled. When things start to turn for the worst, DJ gets re-admitted and plays an important role in the final step competition between Theta Nu Theta and Mu Gamma Xi.

I found “Stomp The Yard” to be more than just another fast-paced and entertaining movie. There’s an unexpected layer of emotion and drama behind it that encourages brotherhood and promotes these boys to become leaders as men. Despite the predictable plot and the death of Chris Brown’s character, the movie — thanks to a solid script and good direction by up-and-comer Sylvain White — builds intensity up until the climactic step competition. Speaking of the step sequences, they’re backed by some good music and showcase some great stepping and dancing.

I highly recommend everyone to go see the movie, but it’s especially relevant for teenage males aspiring to go to college and who may question the value of fraternities.

By Raisa Habersham | VOX Staff