The Next Step

Nick (Rick Negron), an aging dancer who finds out his latest Broadway show is closing, is under pressure from his live-in girlfriend Amy (Kristin Moreu) to retire (with hints about marriage and suburban life). But Nick wants to dance forever. While he struggles to find work, he also struggles to keep his fly shut, bouncing from bed to bed. When Nick finally does land an audition for an upcoming Broadway remake, he realizes he isn't as agile as he used to be, despite his nightly activities. As his options continue to dwindle, Nick tries desperately to put his career and personal life back in order. And that's the familiar long and short of it. The choreography may be lively and entertaining, but The Next Step's story line definitely lacks kick. Not recommended. (M .K. Lau)[DVD Review—Feb. 21, 2006—Pathfinder, 96 min., not rated, $14.98—Making its second appearance on DVD, 1997's The Next Step sports a mediocre transfer with DVD extras including audio commentary (by writer Aaron Reed, director Christian Faber, and costar Taylor Nichols), a 15-minute behind-the-scenes featurette with cast interviews, and trailers. Bottom line: a decent extras package for a disappointing film.]