Jump In!

'Brooklyn. Home of Prospect Park,

the Brooklyn Bridge and teen boxing sensation Izzy Daniels.'

'Look at that kid move.'

POUNDING DANCE MUSIC

'Everyone thought he was the next great champ.'

'And so did I.'

# Some people call me an overachiever

# But I'm always a believer

# It's my time to shine

# Here we go

# It's on, it's on, it's on, it's on It's on, it's on, it's on, it's on

-# C'mon, let's roll

-# Everybody, yeah, here we go

# It's on, it's on, it's on, it's on It's on, it's on, it's on, it's on

# Right here and now

# Everybody, it's going down

# I've been waiting for this moment

# It's time to throw down

# I've been dreamin' this dream forever

# Now I know the time is now

-# Better make some room for me...

-Hi, guys.

-Hey, Izzy.

-# Better than I ever was

# I don't do it for the money I do it for the love

# It's on, it's on, it's on, it's on It's on, it's on, it's on, it's on

# Right here and now Everybody, it's going down. #

Here you go.

-(GIGGLES) Loose it.

-It is loose.

-It has gotta hit the street.

-It is.

-Smoke it!

-(LAUGHS)

-Izzy!

-Mary!

-Get out!

-Make me.

-Why do you always have to mess with us?

-Cos it's fun.

-Well, leave. We've got to practise.

-For what, double Dutch? Please!

The regional competition is Friday and our routine has to be tight if we want to go to city.

And we have to go to city, so... goodbye.

-See ya.

-Oh, he gets on my nerves, y'all.

-Mmm-hmm.

-What?!

-You like him.

-Yeah, admit it.

I don't have time for that. Turn the ropes.

Smell that, baby? That's Dad's famous hit chilli.

Why does it always smell so funny?

That's the Daniels secret sauce.

-What's that smell?

-Dad's famous chilli?!

-Extra peppers, just the way you like it, right, Izzy?

-Yeah, Dad.

And for dessert...

I tried to make it just like your momma.

I see you stuck it out for a longer work-out tonight.

-Remember, boxing is 20% talent -

-80% heart.

-Eww, and 100% sweat. Showers aren't illegal.

-What?

Chow's up.

'Izzy's dad had been a good neighbourhood boxer back in the day.'

'Actually, he was great. Now he had big hopes for Izzy.'

-So, how was school today, baby girl?

-I had a fight with my boyfriend.

-(SPITS) Boyfriend?!

-Hello, Daddy, I am, like, eight.

Heaven help me.

Come on. Keep moving.

Yeah, that's it. Anticipate the moves.

-Hey, Izzy. Ugh!

-(SIGHS)

I'm OK. What? Whoa!

Chuck, help him up.

You know what, you two take a breather.

So, Izzy, you want the good news or the good news?

-I'm going to the Golden Gloves?

-Almost.

-I got you a exhibition match. Win that, you'll be ready.

-You know it.

-Who am I up against?

-The only other undefeated kid in the gym.

-Rodney.

-Big Rodney.

Wow. Third generation of Daniels to win the Golden Gloves.

Keep working on your stamina, wining your bouts, keeping your head in it,

-you could almost guarantee yourself a future in boxing.

-Slow down, Dad.

I'm sorry.

-So what do you think?

-I think I'm going to the Golden Gloves.

all right, let's get you in the ring, you're officially in training.

Big Rodney.

Left. You weren't ready for that one. Watch out, here's righty.

Oh-oh, think it was a family reunion.

-I know that hurt. Come on.

-I taught him that.

-Uh-uh-uh-uh.

-Stop playing around, Izzy.

Stay focused. Let me see the combinations.

Come on.

Uh-huh. Yeah.

-OK.

-Stay with him.

-Get him, Izzy.

-CONTINUES TO CHATTER

That's my boy!

Oh!

-GROANS You hit me.

-You left yourself open.

Never leave yourself open. You are too busy trying to showboat.

-Ain't nothing wrong with being proud.

-You're right.

-Next time you're feeling proud, keep your hands up.

-You got it.

-Hey, Mr Daniels, I'm ready.

-I'll be ready in a minute, Tammy.

You ready for what? There ain't no ballet classes around here.

Good, cos I can already dance around the ring better than you.

-Oh.

-Go warm up with a bag over there.

-Whassup, Tammy?

-Hey, Chuck.

Hi.

What?! I am just being polite, man.

I am going to be sick.

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Work it now. Work it.

DANCE MUSIC

# Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

# Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. #

You know, if you're trying to impress me,

you are gonna be up all night.

all right, that's it. How's that, baby?

Er, nice, Daddy.

-That kid Rodney had better look out for you.

-Yeah, Dad, 80% heart.

And hearing.

-PHONE RINGS

-I had better get that.

-What?

I'll be ready to go in a minute.

LAUGHS

-Slammin' hair.

-It's not funny. Help me.

Can you do it the way Mommy used to?

-You miss her, huh?

-Yeah.

I know, so do I.

There's a leak down at the gym. I'd better get down there.

-But what about the double Dutch competition?!

-Oh. Izzy'll take you.

-What?!

-Mary will be there.

-But...

Come on, Karin, let's go!

-Yo, Izzy, are you coming to the movies?

-Free popcorn.

I can't. I've got to take care of some double Dutch.

Messed up, man.

-Don't you have to wear a tutu?

-THEY LAUGH

-Dad didn't say nothing about taking these.

-That's what he meant.

I hope you have money, everybody's hungry.

-Come and get it.

-GROANS

Rodney!

'Rodney, the neighbourhood bully. He boxed too.'

'But he was more of a threat out of the ring.'

-'He ruled with fear.'

-I know you're not talking to me, loser.

So I hear you're my competition in the exhibition match.

-It looks that way.

-You'll never outbox me, daddy's boy.

-Yes he will, he's got mad skills.

-He's been training, watch out.

Training?! Oh, I am scared.

He's the one that should be scared, right, Rodney?

-He should be sacred, right, Rodney?

-What, punk?

-Nothing.

Come on. See you in the ring, loser.

Yeah, loser.

That's right, you'd better run.

-What!?

-Are you sure about the movies?

-Yeah, I'm sorry, man.

-It's all right.

Take care of yourself.

DANCE MUSIC

Look! There's Mary! Mary! Mary!

-You guys are the bomb.

-Let's hope the judges think so.

-What are you always so negative?

-I'm just saying the real.

-Whatever.

No, she's right. If the judges don't like us, we're sewed up.

I can't breathe.

Maybe your boyfriend can make you feel better.

Izzy Daniels at a double Dutch competition?!

What happened? Did you lose a bet?

-My dad made us bring him.

-Hey, Mary.

We heard you guys couldn't find a fourth so you guys retired.

I guess you were wrong, Gina.

Cos Yolanda moved here from Atlanta and she's good. Really good. So you had better watch out.

Oh, we are so scared.

-Not really.

-THEY LAUGH

-Who was that?

-Gina and the Dutch Dragons.

-They have been regional champs for four years.

-They are good.

I cannot believe they make such a big deal out of jumping rope.

-It happens to be a huge deal.

-If we qualify.

-Negative.

-Which we won't do if we stand here talking.

-I don't even want to be here.

-Go.

Snack bar is that way.

Good luck, you guys.

Go!

Ladies and gentlemen, Joy Jumpers, Dutch Dragons and Soul Steppers,

ready your ropes. Get set. Go!

The teams are required to do a series of steps.

One foot hops, crisscross and high knee up.

MUSIC: "Gotta Lotta" by Prima J

Keep it up, Mary.

I love the speed part.

Cool.

Faster! Keep moving!

-Come on, Mary, you can do this. Faster!

-Faster!

Yes!

APPLAUSE AND CHEERING

I got him.

ladies and gentlemen, it's time for the freestyle competition!

-I love freestyle.

-You love everything.

Shh!

MUSIC "Go" by Jupiter Rising

Yeah!

-Oh, yeah, cool.

-What?!

-Nothing.

Here they are, the Joy Jumpers!

Cool!

Give it up for the Dutch Dragons!

'From that moment, Izzy couldn't explain it.'

'But it was as if somebody had opened a door to a whole new world.'

Come on. Yeah.

-See you guys at regionals.

-See ya.

-See ya.

-You guys were so awesome.

-Thank you so much.

-Can I get a hot dog?

-No.

-And what did you think, Izzy?

-Not bad, fourth place.

-Cool ribbons.

-Thanks, Karin.

Hey. Good effort.

-Oh, and, er... cute outfits.

-SHE RETCHES

THEY GIGGLE

Now that's a real trophy. But we'll never see one like that.

-What are you trying to say?

-Certain people need to step it up.

-We still qualify for city final.

-But we won't get past the finals with that whack routine you made up.

-I spent hours on that routine. Watch your feet instead of worrying about what I'm doing.

-Whatever.

-The routine is whack. Right, Izzy?

-Me?! Whoa. No, no, no.

This is not my business. My dad is making dinner and we gotta go.

-No we don't.

-Yeah we do. Let's go.

-Let's go find Brigitte.

-Look, guys, our routine...

-SCHOOL BELL RINGS

-Don't be embarrassed.

Your dad's having a hard time and people just want to help.

-'Rodney was the toughest guy in the ring and the school yard.'

-Thanks.

-You let me know if the clothes don't fit.

-OK.

'But at home he was just a poor kid with problems.'

What are you looking at?

# You think we're different That we're worlds apart

# I think that we're the same deep down, in our hearts

# You think that I'm a fool

# Don't know who you are

# But you're wrong you will bruise If I win, if I lose

# It don't matter what tricks you got up your sleeve

# It don't matter whose house is who's on the street

# All I know is I I would give everything

# Guess I'm ready, ready, ready

# As I'm ever gonna be. #

You're up, ace.

Showtime.

CHEERING

-Are you OK?

-Yeah. I think so.

I know so. Show me that game face.

-Yeah, that's it. Who's the greatest?

-I am.

In this corner, weighing 158lbs, Rodney Tyler!

-Are you OK?

-Yeah.

-Elbows low and jabs high. 20% talent, 80% heart.

And in this corner weighing 148lbs,

-Izzy "The Incredible" Daniels!

-CHEERING

Touch gloves.

That'd be the last time your gloves touch me, chump.

Izzy, I'm right here.

Show him something.

Come on, Izzy. Let's go!

That's what I'm talking about.

'Rodney was 158lbs of pure mean

and full of anger. That anger came through with every punch.'

Left. Your other left.

Incredible, incredibly lame.

-CROWD BOOS

-Izzy!

HE LAUGHS

Take deep breaths. Izzy, listen to me!

You have got to watch his moves. He swings wild.

Wait him out. He's got power but no skills.

Just stay with him and find your rhythm.

Hey, you got this. OK.

Just stay with him and find your rhythm.

Come on.

-Yeah!

-CHEERING

-The winner is Daniels!

-HE CHEERS

Whoa! THEY CHEER

That's my boy.

That was great. Good fight.

Did you see Rodney's face, man?

Who turned out the lights? I can't see.

-You think you all big and bad messing with people.

-You showed him.

Just couldn't keep up. Can't be all that light on the mat.

Me, I'd have shown him a quick one myself. Karate chop.

A side you never seen, L'il Earl, Mr Hyde, worst nightmare.

Where are you hiding those mad skills during practice?

Did I tell you you did a very nice job?

That's wonderful.

It's not about knocking someone out,

it's about scoring points with your combinations

and your footwork. It's about endurance.

And what's up here.

-And that leaves you out.

-THEY LAUGH

Good job tonight, Izzy. You guys get on home.

-That leaves you out.

-THEY LAUGH

DOORBELL RINGS

'Rodney wondered who left the clothes.'

'But after losing that night, he never suspected Izzy.'

-'I'm sorry, Mary, I quit.'

-Yes!

But we need you.

I didn't get in this to play games.

I am in it to win.

Hey. Don't jump. It can't be that bad.

Pretty much.

-Are you crying?

-No.

So why is your face all wet?

-Why do you have so many questions?

-SHE SNIFFS

I'm just asking. Help you out.

There's nothing you can help me with.

So, erm, I heard you beat Rodney.

-What, are you keeping tabs on me?

-You wish.

Yeah, I did. Now I am going to the Golden Gloves.

-It must be nice.

-Yeah, it's cool.

-My dad's happy.

-'Mary, come wash the dishes.'

Coming!

-What, you ain't going to say good night?

-Good night, Izzy.

Good night. Oh, Mary. Since I am in training I kind of need my sleep

so if you could do me a favour and try not to snore tonight.

HE SNORES

Go away.

My boy Izzy was knocking Rodney all left and right.

-LAUGHTER

-He gonna think twice before he messes with somebody.

Can't be that bad.

-Maybe not.

-'Sometimes things don't always work out the way you want.'

-What are you all looking at?

-Sorry, we didn't recognise you standing up.

-What's wrong?

-LAUGHTER

-Everyone saw a trip.

-Whatever.

-It still count, right, Izzy?

-Yeah, man. I won, it's over.

-No.

-I want my rematch.

-Whatever, man.

-Yeah, whatever.

-Cos everyone needs to know you just got lucky.

-Just let it go.

What are you? Chicken?

I am just saying, Tasha isn't that bad.

Girlfriend has got two left feet. And not hers.

-What about Danzia?

-Double handed.

-What about my cousin?

-Alberta? She's almost blind.

It's called extreme myopia.

Go away, Izzy. I'm not in the mood.

-Hey, what did I do?

-Nothing. She's just mad. Yolanda quit.

-Oh, why? Did she finally figure out that double Dutch is lame?

-No.

She thinks we are. She joined the Dutch Dragons.

-She thinks they're the best.

-Well, they sort of are.

Anyway, now we are down a jumper again.

-And the city finals are coming up.

-Anybody can jump some rope.

Shoot! My little sister's free.

If it's so easy, you do it.

-Come on with the come-on.

-Fine. Keisha. Shauna.

Let's do this.

Come on, Mary, jump in.

Show him, girl.

THEY SHOUT ENCOURAGEMENT

-That's what I am talking about. Good job.

-Boxer boy.

Bring it on, jump girl.

Any day.

-Hey, hey, hey! I was just kidding. I'll go again.

-He got this.

-Hope he don't mess up this time.

-Me either.

Whoa!

Wow!

-Oh, my gosh!

-Enough said.

-What are you thinking?

-Don't even go there.

-Still on a high from your win?

-I would be if Rodney weren't a jerk.

Boxing doesn't solve those kinds of problems. Never forget that.

-Go ask him! Go on!

-Go!

Hey.

What are you guys doing here?

Looking for you.

-You found me. So?

-You jump pretty fast.

-I do have some skills.

-At what, bragging?

We want you to join our team.

-Your jump rope team?

-Yeah.

-You are seriously tripping.

-No, we are not.

The city finals are in a few weeks, the competition is super tough.

And you are a good jumper. And you said it yourself, you got skills.

OK, I am sorry for you all, but I can't go out like that.

Jump roping isn't me.

-Why?

-It just isn't.

-You jump rope all the time.

-For boxing.

-Are you scared your boys will laugh at you?

-Come on, we really need you.

No.

Forget him. It's not worth it.

Come on, Mary, you know you can't forget me.

Already forgotten.

-Dad's cooking chilli again.

-I'm on it.

Large pepperoni to go. LAUGHTER

The answer is still no.

-We don't want you to be on the team.

-Good.

Cos it wasn't happening.

We just want you to fill in until we can find somebody else.

Fill in?

Yep. Stand in as a fourth so we can plan our routine.

while we look for someone.

So you wouldn't actually be on the team.

-I don't know.

-Please. Your skills are tight.

We really need you.

-And Mary really wants you.

-It didn't seem like it.

-Oh! Yeah, she's all for it.

-Completely.

-Over my dead body!

-Why not? He can help us!

-No!

-I am out of here.

-Wait! We need you.

-Mary.

-What? We can get my cousin Leslie.

-But Leslie moved to Alaska.

-So what's a plane ticket?

Mary.

-Later.

-Go on.

all right! Fine!

-Yes?

-Stay.

-Like you mean it.

-We could really use your help. Please.

Since you are begging, I'll do it.

-Yes!

-Cool.

-Meet us for practice after school in the park.

The park?! In front of the whole neighbourhood? Are you guys crazy?!

Forget that. Here's the deal. I'll do it but it has to be before school and at the gym.

My dad doesn't open up until before eight so we can meet at six.

-That'll work. Thanks.

-You're the best.

There's room for one more.

Hmph!

-She's happy on the inside.

-Way on the inside.

-ALARM CLOCK RINGS / BANGING

-Izzy, wake up! Izzy, wake up!

Wake up!

It is time for practice.

If this is jump rope practice, why aren't we jumping?

First, we stretch, then we run for stamina.

You're tripping. It's just double Dutch.

I told y'all. He thinks this is a joke.

Just double Dutch?!

This is a sport, just like football or basketball, or boxing.

A bunch of girls singing and jumping through some ropes ain't a sport.

Let's see you do something. And I don't mean speed jumping.

-What, do you mean like one of those tricks y'all do?

-Yeah.

-Try this.

-Bring it.

What song should I sing? Ring Around the Roses?

We don't sing, we jump.

Come on, Mary.

-What are you waiting for?

-It's nothing.

-Do it.

-It's not that hard.

-There you go.

Come on.

THEY GIGGLE

See, it's not that easy.

You said you just needed someone to fill in. I don't need to learn that.

-Practise or not?

-Not.

-Let's practise, y'all.

-Fine. Let's just do it.

When you jump in...

# Jump to the rhythm and sing to the music

# All in together let's show how we do it

# Step to the rhythm and dance to the music

# All in together we shine Jump in. #

ALARM CLOCK RINGS

OK, let's start with speed jumping.

I think we could take five seconds off, if we try.

-How about freestyle?

-We don't have time to watch you try to freestyle.

-Just turn the ropes.

-OK, Izzy. You can do it.

And what?

# I won't, won't be held down Be stuck here on the ground

# Yes, sir! It's the real me

# I have found and I'm risin' up

# I won't, won't be held down Be stuck here on the ground

# It's the real me

# I have found and I'm risin' up

# Your feelin' something's incomplete

# Your faith is where a concrete seat

# And they refuse to make a move this can't be your life

# You know that something's outta step

# Cos you ain't found the rhythm yet...

Come on, Izzy, pick it up.

# I believe that I can be most anything

# Watch me spread my wings

# I'm goin' vertical a dream gets to fly

# It's like a miracle a reach through the sky

# If you want it, you need it now you've just got to free it

# And it goes vertical, vertical

# Why shouldn't I have locked the door?

# That's what I got my own key for

# I don't care who's keeping score

# I'm not gonna lose

# Don't matter what I'm up against only what is represents

# It's in my head, it's making sense I'm gonna choose...

Come on, Izzy.

Come on. Let's go. Come on.

Let's think about it.

# Watch me spread my wings

# Going vertical

# A dream gets to fly. #

Izzy, wake up out there.

Girl Boxer 1,

Boy Double Dutcher 0.

Hey, Tammy. Nice work today.

-Mm-hmm. What's up?

-About that boy double Dutching thing.

-What?

-I'm trying to keep that on the DL.

I bet you are.

-So...

-Calm down.

I'm not gonna say anything, as long as you stop your girl boxer jokes.

-Especially around Chuck.

-You like Chuck?!

Yeah, cool. I can do that.

OK.

-Oh, you're late.

-Dinner starts at seven in this house. Always has.

Maybe things should start changing.

Your mother had dinner at seven. Dinner is at seven.

Now sit down and eat, Izzadore.

DANCE MUSIC

Come on, Izzy, let's work the freestyle.

Listen.

I think we need a new routine.

-Why?

-Cos yours is...

-you know...

-What?

Boring.

-What do you know?

-I know those judges weren't feeling you.

Great(!) Even with the best compulsory and speed, we still can't win without the freestyle.

-You keep rehearsing it and trying to make it all perfect and precise.

-Cos that's what they're looking for.

-But is it fun?

-It's not about fun. It's about winning.

Shouldn't freestyle be about fun?

It's like the same thing you guys used to do when you were little.

Just with more tricks, right?

Well, yeah.

Remember when you used to play in the street and sing them silly songs?

-What's the one Karin and her friends do? Mary Mac.

-Yeah.

-Miss Mary Mac, Mac, Mac.

-All dressed in black, black, black.

That's it.

-Your point?

-What's the difference? You're just doing it for fun.

So, what do we do, Mister Smarty?

I do have one idea.

# Ropes, swingers and runners are you ready

# Jump, jump, jump

# Double Dutch, jump, jump, jump Freestyle, jump

# Jump, jump, jump Double Dutch, jump, jump, jump. #

Who are they? I thought I knew every team out there.

Maybe they're just jumping to jump. It's not all about the competition.

# Everybody jump up Get pumped up

# And double Dutch Don't let the jump ropes touch

# In and out the middle How I steppin' to the beat

# Here we go here, we go Got a half-foot beat

# Who want it could be You can meet us in the streets

# Tear up the concrete Put the heat in your sneaks

# Slow way down and speed it back up

# Hold your ground and try to catch up. #

So, how do you know about all this?

I didn't. I just... I figured the best boxers come from the streets.

Not bad. For a boxer boy.

I'm in touch with my natural side. I didn't want to hurt it.

-Has anybody seen Izzy?

-ALL: No.

-Where's Izzy, man?

-I don't know. He's never late.

But as I was saying, cos I am so intense with my natural side...

That was so amazing.

-My name is Mary.

-BOTH: Yeah.

-I'm rough and tough.

-BOTH: Yeah.

-If you get in my way.

-BOTH: Yeah.

-I'll mess you up.

-She thinks she's bad.

-I know I am bad.

-She thinks she's cool.

-Cool enough to steal your moves.

-ALL: Oh.

You go, Izzy.

-My name is Izzy.

-ALL: Yeah.

-I'm smooth and clean.

-ALL: Yeah.

-When I jump rope.

-ALL: Yeah.

-All the girls scream.

He thinks he's good.

-I rule this hood.

-He make me holler.

Watch me while I pop my collar.

-GIRLS LAUGH

-That was good.

I can't wait till we start our new routine.

-Look at daddy's boy.

-Rodney.

Wasn't that just adorable.

-Maybe I should show these girls what a loser you really are.

-Loser?

Last time I checked, I won that match.

-You don't want to do this.

-Why don't you just chill!

Run!

Show-off!

Hey, goofy.

Thanks.

-For what?

-Nothing.

Everything. I don't know.

So, er, those jumpers were pretty cool, huh?

Well, well, well, look who likes double Dutch.

Who?

You always have jokes, huh?

I dunno.

I guess I do. You know, there's just...

something about it.

Better than boxing? It's OK if you do.

You know.

It's complicated. My dad...

-Boxing's kind of his thing.

-That's what I thought about ballet.

Every September, my mom would sign me up.

It's like - school start, so ballet start.

I thought she loved it.

Then last year, I finally said, "Mom, I hate ballet."

And you know what she said?

"Good, cos you look like a horse galloping across the stage."

HE LAUGHS

But...

..boxing's all my dad really has.

No. He has you.

Corny much!

-I'm just sayin'!

-LAUGHS Thanks.

It's just not that easy.

Er... I'm gonna go work on that new routine.

See you tomorrow.

Bright and early.

Yeah.

Yeah! Bright and early.

-Oh.

-Where have you been?

I was...

..um...

-..out with my friends.

-I see.

-So I guess you were busy.

-A little.

Too busy to remember your practice match -

or that your curfew is two hours ago?

I'm sorry I missed curfew, and the precious match.

-What's going on with you lately?

-Nothing.

No, something's going on,

and I think we need to sit down and talk about it.

-Are you nervous about the match?

-No, Dad!

-Don't lose focus now.

-I'm not, Dad!

I just don't want you to disappoint yourself in the ring.

I won't be late again.

-It's not over, Daddy's boy!

-Yeah!

-Who you gonna run to now?

-Yeah!

-You know you can talk to me...

Don't hit me! I promise you I'll give you my lunch money!

-What?!

-Mr Tyler! Mr Hutz!

-Miss Roberts...

-Come with me.

-Detention?

-And it's free, so you won't need Mr Daniels' lunch money.

It's not over.

POUNDING DANCE MUSIC

# Hear me now!

# This is dedicated to all them people that like to move their body

# Them people that like to jump and swing

# Right, Mr DJ come back and drop that beat

# Ooh, Mr B, let's pump to the beat

# Pick up, pick up and come to the street

# Mr B, let's pump to the beat...

Oh, snap! Double Dutch?!

HE GIGGLES

Big mistake, Daddy's boy!

-All right!

-ALL LAUGH AND CHATTER

-Awesome!

-We're gonna smoke the city finals now.

Sorry to rain on the double-Dutch parade, but we need a fourth person.

Mary's right. We still got to find somebody.

I just wish... Never mind.

Maybe we could beg Yolanda to come back.

-We're tight now.

-Right, like that's gonna happen!

Great! We're the bomb, and nobody's gonna see it.

Excuse me! Maybe I can help.

-You know someone?

-Who is it, Izzy?

-Me!

-What?

-You're obviously not gonna find anyone as good!

-We're so gonna win!

So, superstar... what changed your mind?

I hate to disappoint the ladies.

-Please!

-What about your boys?

I figured they don't have to know.

-Then, welcome to the team.

-Yeah!

So, now that we've got a team, maybe we could enter this.

-The double-Dutch showcase?

-It's at the Elgin in Harlem.

-It's also in three days!

-I don't think we're ready.

-Hey, we're ready!

-He's right.

-We're ready.

-OK!

-Cool.

-I do have one condition.

The name. Joy Jumpers? I can't go out like that.

-I like our name!

-We're cool with changing the name.

OK, how about the Hot Chili Steppers?

-I love it.

-It's all right... I guess.

Cool. Hot Chili Steppers, on three.

-One!

-Two!

-Three!

ALL: Hot Chili Steppers!

-Where are you going?

-None of your.

-Mm-hmm? Dad! Izzy's leaving!

-(Karin!)

Where you going?

I was just going... you know... out with Mary.

Ooh! Izzy and Mary, sittin' in a tree...

-Chill, Karin!

-Whatever.

You sure been spending a lot of time with Mary.

-What?

-She's a pretty girl.

-Dad!

-Can I go?

-Er, you could,

or you could hang out with your dad. The Arena - Evans-Chavez, today.

-Today?

-That's right. We're gonna see a real champ.

-Um...

-What do you think?

POUNDING ROCK MUSIC

AUDIENCE SCREAMS AND CHEERS

-Where is he?

-Don't worry. He'll be here.

-He'd better!

-I know.

-PHONE RINGS

-Hello?

Oh, hi, Izzy... No, Mary's not here. She's already gone.

OK. Bye bye.

POUNDING ROCK MUSIC

ALL CHEER

-Are you ready?

-I guess so.

"Gimme some love for the Hot Chili Steppers!"

Hey, so, you have fun tonight? It's like your mind was somewhere else.

No! It was cool. I... I had fun, Dad.

I'm glad.

-Night, Izz.

-Good night.

Hey, Mary! Hey, Mary! Are you there?

-What?

-I'm sorry about today.

-I don't care, Izzy.

My dad got us tickets to a boxing match.

A boxing match? Oh, then, my bad.

-I tried to call.

-What was that gonna do?

You asked to be on the team, then you left us hanging.

You had us all fooled, thinking you liked double Dutch.

We looked like fools up there! We were counting on you.

-But I guess this is a joke to you.

-What was I supposed to do?

-Make a choice.

-I... I couldn't!

Then, I'll do it for you. You're off the team.

What?

Double Dutching is serious to us - to me.

And you showed me I can't rely on you.

Mary!

Jab left!

Lucky punch.

-She's not lucky. She's good.

-What?!

-Tammy's a good boxer.

-Yeah, for a girl.

-For anybody, man.

-She knocked you out last week.

-I told you a thousand times,

I thought I saw a quarter on the mat.

Just cos she's a girl doesn't mean she can't box,

just like guys can do other stuff, too.

-What's his problem?

-I think she's good, too, man.

Nice one, Tammy!

-This is stupid. We need Izzy back.

-No way!

We can't compete in the city finals without a fourth.

Plus... I kinda miss him. And so do you!

-No, I don't.

-Come on, Mary. He's apologised, like, eight times.

-He couldn't say no to his dad.

-It's not like he did it on purpose!

And he's helped us.

Look, you're the one who's always talking about

how we've always got to be perfect. Well, we were close with Izzy!

Hi.

-I see him!

-BABBLE OF VOICES

-ALL SHOUT AND LAUGH

-There he is!

ALL CHATTER AND JEER

-THEY LAUGH

-Loser!

-Hey, what's up with this, man?

-Nice legs!

-What are you trying to say?

-You're my friend, so I'll tell you.

What I'm trying to say... You look real pretty!

BOTH LAUGH Your mother looks real pretty!

Calm down, man. I'm just playin'!

Now I see why you won't give me a rematch.

You're too busy jumpin' double Dutch.

I went with the pink. Nice touch, don't you think?

HE LAUGHS

Here's the man who likes to jump rope!

-Loser!

-ALL LAUGH

# Where do I go

# Every direction seems to be against the flow

# And who will I be

# What does it mean to just be me

# So tired of having to choose

# Who I'll be and what I'm gonna do

# Lost in confusion

# I feel like I'm losing

# Oh, where do I go from here

# With all this confusion

# Who's gonna break my fall... #

Izzy!

Izzy!

# Nothing is clear

# Where do I go from here

# Oh, I can't tell what's up or down

# My head's spinning all the time

# Every time that I turn around

-# There's another useless sign...

-KIDS LAUGH MOCKINGLY

# I wanna know but I don't know which way I'm gonna go

# Where will I go... #

-Skippin' the rope!

-ALL LAUGH

-That's real pretty, baby.

-Thanks.

-What's that, Daddy?

-A surprise for Izzy.

I won this the night I won the Golden Gloves.

DOOR CREAKS

-Izzy, can we talk?

-What's up, Dad?

I found this.

-You were snooping through my trash?

-My house, my trash!

Now, what's this about double Dutch?

Nothing.

He's mad cos kids are laughing at him cos he's on a double-Dutch team.

-Hey! I'm eight. I know things.

-What is she talking about?

He's with the Hot Chili Steppers, Mary's double-Dutch team.

-Shut up!

-Shut don't go up. Prices do. So -

Both of you, quiet!

Karin, go to your room!

Is this why your mind's not been on the ring?

Talk to me, Izzy.

Why didn't you tell me about this?

-Because.

-You wanna elaborate on that?

Cos you wouldn't have heard me unless I was talking about boxing.

That's all we ever talk about, Dad, since Mom died!

You know, I don't even like it any more!

I'm just doing it for you. That's not fair!

Just because you don't have a life any more, don't take mine away!

-I'm so sorry, Dad.

-It's OK.

Um... Looks like we're out of milk.

I'll be right back.

# Every night I lie awake

# My thoughts come rolling in

# I see the gold of love untold

# And shattered, broken dreams

# I got to let it go

# All the pain inside

# I got to let it go

# And move on with my life... #

Izzy, I been looking for you.

Well, you found me.

Look,

-the girls and I were talking, and I just wanted to ask -

-No way.

-What?

-Look, I need to focus on boxing.

I don't understand.

I'm a boxer!

I can't be champion if I'm jumping rope with a bunch of girls.

-What are you talking about? Is this because of Rodney?

-No.

It's not just Rodney, OK?

You love double Dutch, Izzy. You know you do!

-And you're good.

-I'm not doing it.

I'm sorry.

No, Izzy.

I'm sorry.

What's up?

Double-Dutch competition's tomorrow, right?

So, you're just gonna punk out cos kids are laughing?

Look, you normally get on my nerves,

but I'm not gonna let you go out like that.

If I listened to every stupid comment your boys made about me,

you think I'd be the best girl boxer in the city? People make fun.

I figure...

..that's their problem.

Listen to her, boy. Tammy's got a good head on her shoulders.

Whassup, Daddy's boy? Where you heading off to - ballet class?

-So, what? You out of words?

-Here's one. Move.

No! It's time for that rematch, punk.

-Yeah, so gear up!

-Or what?

-Or are you too chicken?

-CLUCKS LIKE HEN

ALL CLUCK / LAUGH

You know what? Let's do this.

CROWD YELLS Those who can't, teach, right?

-What's going on?

-It's a rematch - Rodney and Izzy.

You gonna box or dance, jump-rope boy?

Won't change the fact I already beat you.

-Beat you bad!

-Watch it, man.

Will beating me change the fact your daddy's out of work?

-CROWD GASPS

-I'm warning you!

-Or that everybody here thinks you're a loudmouthed bully?

-Watch it!

You can't just fight to get respect, man.

Are you running from me? Why don't you go home to your jump-rope?

I don't need rope to do this.

ALL CHEER

But with ropes it's more impressive.

Wanna know what else looks better on ropes?

-Rodney!

-I mean it!

-It's over, man. Let's end this.

-No!

CROWD YELLS

-That was smooth.

-That's my best friend right there!

I am sorry about your dad. I'm sorry I beat you.

I'm sorry you're so angry, but I'm not doing this with you!

-You can keep your sorry.

-You and me both have a lot to be mad about.

Fighting isn't gonna make it any better.

There's more important things.

CROWS BOOS

-ALL YELL

-Fight! Fight!

ALL SHOUT ENCOURAGEMENT

-Go ahead, man.

-Show him, Izzy!

No! Look, man, I'm done with you.

I'm done with this.

I don't know about you, but I am tired of being mad.

All right?

ALL MURMUR APPROVINGLY / APPLAUD

'Rodney was tired of being mad, too. He just couldn't say it.'

'The truth was, he was impressed.'

'Nobody had ever stood up to him.'

'No-one had the nerve to tell him the truth like Izzy.'

'It was a moment... he would never forget.'

"We're here at the double-Dutch city finals."

The three teams with the highest score in the freestyle and speed

will qualify for the state championships,

and could go on to compete at the world championships.

This is all very exciting.

-Is he coming?

-I said no.

-We need him.

-Why? We got Aubreena.

-Aagh!

Great.

Sorry!

Wait!

We are so gonna lose.

-Izzy.

-Forget Izzy. He's not coming, OK?

-Yeah, girl. Let it go.

-No!

Izzy. He's here.

-Izzy?!

-You guys weren't gonna try and do without me, were you?

-We thought you quit.

-I did.

-I'm sorry.

-"I'm sorry, I'm sorry"! That's all you've got?!

-Um...

-Cos around here you need two "I'm sorry"s. And a uniform.

-All right!

-Nice!

-Awww(!)

-LAUGHS

You guys actually entered?!

What you scrape the bottom of the barrel and find?

-Izzy Daniels?!

-Hey, he's good.

I'm sure he's good enough for y'all.

-My grandmother would be good enough for them.

-Hah! You'll see.

Good luck with that. And don't worry, I'll let y'all take pictures

-with our trophy.

-Puh-leeze.

-Your trophy?

Good luck.

-I can't stand her.

-Forget her!

-OK. But I still can't stand her.

-So, Izzy, what changed your mind?

You said you got to listen to your heart.

I'm listening to mine, and it is saying we are so gonna be all that!

-You know it!

-On three. One...

-Two.

-Three.

-ALL: Hot Chili Steppers!

POUNDING DANCE MUSIC

I'm looking for the Hot Chili Steppers, the Dutch Dragons

and the Sunshine Steppers. Ready your ropes!

Go!

POUNDING DANCE MUSIC

Compulsory! Left and right toes on one foot.

Criss-cross on the high step is what I wanna see.

SHOUTS RAPID-FIRE INSTRUCTIONS

# Nobody's gonna stop us now

# Nobody's gonna keep us down

# Now's the time to make your move

# Put your feelings in the groove

# Let it go, the time is right

# Let loose tonight, yeah

# People, keep it jumpin'

# Everybody's jumpin' right now

# We're gonna have a good time

# So come on, keep it funkin', jumpin'

# People, keep it jumpin'

# Feel the rhythm bumpin' right now

# Come on, double-Dutch it

# We're gonna keep it bumpin' jumpin'... #

In compulsory, third place...

the Sunshine Steppers!

In second place...

the Dutch Dragons!

-You got it, man!

-In first place...

the Hot Chili Steppers!

ALL CHEER / SHRIEK

# People, have a good time

# Come on, keep it bumpin', jumpin'

# People, keep it pumpin'... #

Ladies and gentlemen, what you're witnessing

is speed, amazing speed!

Just look at their feet, and try and count the steps... if you can.

# People, keep it bumpin', jumpin'

# People, keep it pumpin'

# Feel the rhythm move you right now...

Turn! Good job!

# People, keep it bumpin, jumpin' yeah #

Let's see what we got! Let's see what we got.

-You were great.

-Let's get the scores first.

In third place, with 369 steps per minute, the Jump Js!

In second place, with 372 steps per minute,

-the Hot Chili Steppers!

-ALL CHEER / YELL

And first place, with 378 steps per minute,

the Dutch Dragons!

Second place... That's cute. ALL CACKLE AND SCREECH

Now, with both teams tied, we're down to the freestyle.

This is my favourite part of the competition,

where teams can do practically anything to wow the judges.

The sky is the limit in freestyle.

So right about now I want you guys to show some of that love

for the Kung Fu Flyers!

# We got to keep it movin'

# We got to keep it hot

# We got to keep it movin'

# Make sure that we take it to the top

# We got to keep it movin'

# We got to never stop

# We got to keep it movin'

# Make sure that we take it to the top

# Wake up every morning doing jumpin' jacks... #

Give it up for the Jive Js!

POUNDING RAP-DANCE MUSIC

Here are the Jump Masters!

-You all right?

-Yeah.

-Some of these teams are really good.

-And so are we! Hello!

I want y'all to keep that energy going as we welcome to the stage

the Dutch Dragons!

POUNDING DANCE MUSIC

OK, we're right after the Dutch Dragons.

-Why are you sweatin' other teams?

-What are you doing, Mary?

Somebody told me to stop trippin' and just have fun!

This is weird. I've never been on a team before.

It's always been just me and my fists.

-I never had to count on anyone else.

-You can count on us.

-Yeah!

-Right. Let's do this!

TRACK BOOMS TO A CLOSE

CROWD CHEERS

That's what I'm talkin' about.

You can do this.

-I'm fine. Let's do it.

-Give it up...

for the Hot Chili Steppers!

MUSIC: "It's My Turn Now" by Keke Palmer

# This time for real

# Tired of playing it safe

# Inside I feel I've got what it takes

# to prove to the world who I really can be

# I know for sure there's no stopping me

# No time to wait on the sides watching it all pass me by

# I'm gonna be in the game watch me play it

# I'm coming with it, you know

# Let's get to starting this show

# Turn up the lights, hit the stage no more waiting

# It's my turn now and you know that I'm ready

# It's my turn now yeah, I'm strong and I'm steady

# Break down the wall gonna go for it all

# It's my time, gonna shine show you how

# Cos it's my turn now

# One, two, now I do just what I've always wanted to

# Three, four, do some more everything you wanted and waited for

# It's my turn now and you know that I'm ready

# It's my turn now, yeah I'm strong and I'm steady

# Break down the wall gonna go for it all

# It's my time, gonna shine show you how

# Cos it's my turn now. #

CROWD CHEERS ENTHUSIASTICALLY

MUSIC: "Push It To the Limit" by Corbin Bleu

Yeah! Come on, now. Do it! Here we go!

ALL CHEER

I can't hear you!

# Push it, push it to the limit, limit

# Cos we're in it to win it

# In it to win it, oh, yeah

# I realised that this is where my heart is

# Now is the time to finish what I started

# Can't worry 'bout what other people might say

# It's who I am I live my dream my own way

# Work, work it harder

# Got to take it farther

# No holding back you know we gotta do it right now

# Be even better

# Work, work together

# It's now or never

# Show 'em how we shine we gotta push it, push it

# To the limit, limit

# Cos we're in it to win it

# In it to win it, oh, yeah

# Push it, push it to the limit, limit

# Give it all we can give it

# We're in it to win it, oh

# Oh, yeah, take it now

# Work it out, we got it

# Wanna hear the crowd

# Everybody now... ALL LAUGH / CHATTER

# Work it out, can't stop it

# Show 'em how

# We're gonna bring the house down

# Push it, push it

# To the limit, limit

# Cos we're in it to win it

# Ready to get it

# Let's just push it, push it...

Come on! Come on! CROWD CHEERS

# Get it, get it we're in it to win it

# Oh, yeah, push it, push it

# To the limit, limit

# Cos we're in it to win it in it to win it

# Oh, yeah, push it, push it

# To the limit, limit

# Give it all we can give it

# Cos we're in it to win it

# To the limit. #

CROWD CHEERS RAPTUROUSLY

-Great job!

-Way to go, Izzy!

-Come on!

-Yeah!

ALL CHEER Yeah!

Whoo!

-Mom!

-Congratulations, baby!

You were wonderful. I'm so proud of you.

-There's Izzy.

-You were great!

Thanks.

Mary!

Hey, Dad.

-CHUCKLES

-You looked good out there.

Thanks.

-I'm sorry.

-No, Izzy.

I am.

I want us to be able to talk about anything.

After your mom died, I guess I pushed boxing a little more

because I thought that you loved it so much,

I loved it so much, it's... just a way for us to connect

and to be there for each other.

I love you. And I know you miss your mom,

cos I do, too.

I guess boxing was just a way for me to say all that.

But boxing is my dream.

It doesn't have to be yours.

I always say that boxing is 20% talent,

80% heart.

Well, looks like you're already somewhere else.

That's OK!

I am so proud of you.

-And I know your mom would be, too.

-I just wanna be your champ.

You... are.

Thanks, Dad.

There he is.

Some friends are waiting for you.

Oh, man! That was off the hook, off the chain!

It's all right if you think it's corny.

Let's just say I've been enlightened.

-I think I'm gonna be sick.

-ALL CHUCKLE

Hey, excuse me.

I'm done fighting you, man.

I know.

Then, why are you here?

The double-Dutch thing is kinda cool.

-Thanks.

-For a Daddy's boy.

Truce?

Yeah.

Maybe if you teach me that flip, I can use it in the ring.

CHUCKLES You got it.

All right!

Now, all the teams were wonderful.

However, only the top three

can go on to the state finals, and those teams are...

PROLONGED DRUM ROLL

..in third place, the Kung Fu Flyers!

ALL CHEER

Congratulations.

Second place...

the Dutch Dragons!

'That day, Izzy made a choice - to do what made him happy,

to not care what everyone else thinks,

cos that stuff holds you back. Izzy taught us something that day.'

'I'm glad he did, cos it changed my life.'

And last but not least, to the best all-round double-Dutch team,

based on attitude, teamwork,

sportsmanship and total performance score...

-What happened?

-Yeah, don't stop!

-Did they win? Did they go to state?

-Did Mary and Izzy fall in love?

Whoa, whoa! The Hot Chili Steppers went to state.

-They didn't win.

-ALL: Awwww!

Until the next year.

-And Mary and Izzy?

-Still going strong.

OK. Give it up.

ALL LAUGH AND CHATTER

'I tell the story to kids all the time,

but you really had to be there that day.'

The Hot Chili Steppers!

You can do it. Just jump in.

-Now?

-ALL: Yeah.

-Now?

-Now!

-Now?

-ALL: Go!

# You make me wanna

# Jump to the rhythm...

I'm doin' it!

-Yeah, Mr Daniels! Yeah!

-Whoo!

# Step to the rhythm and dance to the music

# All in together we shine

# Jump in

# Yeah, jump out

# Hey, a little bit a little bit, a little bit

# Oh, turn it around

# Yeah, now bring it up high

# Yeah, can you touch the ground

# He's got it, she's got it

# Everybody's got it

# You gotta be true to yourself

# Stop chasing dreams waiting for somebody else

# Jump to the rhythm and dance to the music

# All in together

# Let's show how we do it

# Step to the rhythm and dance to the music... #