Guest Author - Rain Battle

As a single mom and dance instructor, Ruby (Vanessa Williams) supports herself and her son while she aspires to win an international dance competition. Life changes abruptly when Rafael (Chayanne) comes to town, hoping to meet the father he's never known. After his mother's death at home in Cuba, Rafael is often at the studio to watch the dancers. He is intrigued by Ruby's very technical method of dancing, since for him, it's all about how the music makes you feel. Rafael is drawn to Ruby's skill and beauty and finally gets her to go out with him. He takes her dancing one night and rather than imitating her polished moves, he demonstrates the way he dances. His sultry, smmoth moves pique Ruby's interest and a deeper attraction develops.

Soon Ruby and Rafael are getting to know each other beyond the dance floor. They visit a traditional Latino neighborhood, share deliciously spicy meals, and learn about each other's troubled pasts. Their budding relationship is interrupted by Ruby's cruel ex, who will be her partner in an important competition. Ruby is excited to compete, but uncomfortable with reuniting with the man who ignores their young son.

Rafael and their friends watch fromt he sidelines, rooting for Ruby and hoping her ex doesn't try anything more than dancing with her. Just as she thinks she may falter, Rafael's love helps her in way that no one expects.

"Dance With Me" is a sweet, relatively simple story to follow. Vanessa Williams is enjoyable as a single mom learning to fall in love all over again. She was impressive with all she learned for the role, as was Chayanne. He was also impressive in his first all English speaking role. Not to mention he's nice to look at, especially in a memorable scene when he gets caught in sprinklers...

The plot is pretty familiar, but the energy of the film and the awesome dancing more than make up for a predictable story. The actors make the characters likeable enough for us to care how it all comes out in the end. This is a light, easy-to-digest romance, comparable to an enchillada, but without the chilles.