Watch Inside the Circle

Inside the Circle is a heartwarming romantic comedy movie from 2021, directed by Marcy Levitas Hamilton. The film, which stars Justin Lee, Valeria Gonzalez, and Omar Mora, revolves around the story of two dancers who cross paths and fall in love. Shot entirely indie-style, the movie showcases a compelling portrayal of a youthful romance that blooms amid the hustle and bustle of New York City. Justin Lee plays Damiano, a street performer who dreams of making it big as a dancer. He meets the free-spirited and vibrant Sukei (Valeria Gonzalez) during one of his performances at Washington Square Park. Their initial encounter is marked by a rivalry over a prime performing spot, which soon develops into a deep friendship, and eventually something more.

The storyline is backed up by well-written characters, each offering a different perspective on life, love, and ambition in the bustling city. The chemistry between the two leads is electric and natural, with subtle nuances that make their characters feel real and relatable. The film also balances comedy with emotion, thus providing both light and heartfelt moments.

Throughout the film, Damiano struggles with the pressure of performing for a living and his desire for personal and artistic growth. His internal conflicts become more pronounced when he learns that his father has suffered a heart attack. While coping with this stressful news, he must decide whether to abandon his dreams or continue to push for what he wants. He confides in Sukei, who helps him navigate his way forward without damming his dreams.

Valeria Gonzalez, on the other hand, portrays an equally layered character in Sukei. She is a confident and independent woman, who is not afraid to express herself. Despite her colorful and carefree demeanor, she has a deep-rooted connection to the traditional African dance form and the authentic culture of her people. Her vibrant storytelling and dance routines add a lot of depth to the film, emphasizing that the world is full of different styles, cultures and people.

As the plot progresses, their romantic relationship develops, but not without its share of obstacles. The narrative touchingly captures the essence of their courtship, filled with real moments of vulnerability, love, and passion. Their relationship takes on a more complicated layer when they both secure slots in a prestigious dance competition, which could take their careers to the next level. Will their love for each other prevail in the face of competition, pressure, and ambition?

The film perfectly captures the essence of love and dance, using the art form to serve as a metaphor for the ups and downs of romance. The choreography is well-executed and is seamlessly woven into the story, elevating the film's emotional and aesthetic appeal.

In summary, Inside the Circle is a delightful love story that will strike a chord with anyone who has ever had to balance their dreams, ambitions, and relationships. Marcy Levitas Hamilton's indie-style direction, combined with Justin Lee and Valeria Gonzalez's energetic performances, make for a gripping, emotionally charged film. The peak of the story is punchy, the character arcs are satisfying, and the overall film is a testament to the power of dance and love.

Inside the Circle is a 2021 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.