Pop-Culturalist.com

Ever since the popular Step Up franchise, writers have faced an interesting challenge finding originals ways to incorporate dance within their storylines. Luckily, 48 Hours to Live brings the moves in an intricate whodunit thriller. It’s a film with plenty of plot twists and an ending you won’t see coming.

At the heart of the story is Wyatt (James Maslow), an aspiring dancer with a troubled past. When his sister, Sherilyn (Tyne Stecklein), is tragically murdered, things go from bad to worse. Set on finding her killer, Wyatt embarks on an investigation that leads him back to the nightclub where she was fatally shot. He quickly learns there are several people who wanted her dead. And, things only become more complicated when he falls in love with the club owner’s daughter, Emma (Caitlin McHugh).

48 Hours to Live is one of those rare films where you’ll genuinely be surprised by its ending. It’s well-thought-out and carefully woven. And, it has some of the best dance sequences you’ll see anywhere. But, that’s not to say there aren’t a few missteps along the way and characters who felt unnecessary to the story. James Maslow is an excellent leading man and one of the most promising stars of 2017. He’s brooding, mysterious, and displays a wide range of vulnerability and strength. And, it’s impossible to keep your eyes off Caitlin McHugh. She is captivating.