For some individuals, a ban on dancing would be almost as bad as a ban on breathing. Ren MacCormack, the main character in Footloose, just happens to be one of those people. From the moment this young man gets off the bus at the beginning of the film, his every step reveals a clue about how important dance might be to him. Fortunately, Kenny Wormald, who portrays Ren, exudes attitude and physicality in a role previously played to perfection by Kevin Bacon. Watching Wormald perform one highly strenuous solo in this dramatic remake should convince moviegoers that he was an excellent choice to bring Ren to life on screen for a new era. However, like the original Footloose, there’s not enough dancing here.

“You always want more dancing – and not only in Footloose,” my daughter reminded me as we left the multiplex. She’s right, of course. And I did enjoy the numbers included in this version very much, especially the spirited dancing to the film’s infectious  title song.

After finding out the small town he’s now living in bans loud music and dancing for citizens under 18, high school student Ren MacCormack decides to try and change things. With the help of fellow students as well as some family members and friends, he organizes a petition drive and makes plans to present his cause to the town council. Ren’s major obstacle involves an influential preacher (Dennis Quaid), who is the father of Ariel (Julianne Hough), a troubled teen Ren has fallen hard for -- perhaps because she’s also a fantastic dancer. But seriously, folks, Wormald (You Got Served) and Hough (Burlesque) look terrific in their sexy “get-acquainted” routine, which my husband insists should be banned.  (I suspect he’s just jealous.)

The film’s most dramatic moment comes when Ren addresses the council members. Using quotes from the Bible to back up his argument, the rebellious high school student makes his points with passion and conviction. But will he change any hearts and minds?

Directed with considerable care by Craig Brewer (Hustle & Flow), this Footloose -- co-written by Brewer and Dean Pitchford, who also penned the 1984 version -- remains true to the original while adding more edge and spice to the story. Also on the plus side, most supporting cast members deliver strong, believable performances. Exotic newcomer Zia Colón displays plenty of spunk as Ariel's pal. Miles Teller (Rabbit Hole) almost steals the movie as Willard, Ren’s amusing best friend. His learning- how-to-dance sequence ends up as the most delightful one in the film. Ray McKinnon (The Blind Side) is perfect as Ren’s supportive uncle; and Patrick John Flueger (Brothers) oozes malice as Ren’s rival for Ariel.

Footloose serves as a reminder that when we try to protect our children, sometimes we can go too far. Banning dancing is definitely one of those times.     

Dance is the hidden language of the soul. --- Martha Graham

(Released by Paramount Pictures and rated “PG-13” for some teen drug and alcohol use, sexual content, violence and language.)

For more information about Footloose, go to the Internet Movie Data Base or Rotten Tomatoes website.