Jump

SATURDAY 2 p.m.

(Ages 8 and up)

While 'Jump' makes a superb addition to this BIFF Kids' line-up, it could easily have been entered into the grown-up version of the festival as it really is a captivating effort deserving of a wider audience.

This viewer has never given a second's thought to the ancient sport of jump rope, but was turned into an instant fan within the first five minutes of this movie.

Some of the action is simply breathtaking, combining the athleticism and balance required of gymnastics with the nimbleness required of breakdancing.

While its dedicated practitioners are well aware its mostly teenage detractors regard it as a sissy activity it's clear to see that it deserves as much respect as more well-known sports.

Perhaps because of its simplicity – all you need is a length of cord and some space to swing it – it has been taken up by rich and poor alike who all, according to the evidence of this film, seem determined to better themselves whatever it takes.

We meet tiny Tori, the ginger dynamo from the Midwest who spends much of the film weeping – from the sheer effort of her exertions, from frustration at her slip-ups and finally from joy as it all comes off.

There's the urban teen Marcus who believes the sport has helped him avoid the life of a street thug and Jeff, the Texas jock who is determined to keep coming up with ever-more creative routines.

Socially they might seem very different but they have a common drive and it's difficult not to be swept along with their enthusiasm, particularly when the end result is so alluring.

Despite the fierce competition they also don't mind sharing tips with rivals during warm-up sessions.

Covering everything from practice sessions, to regional competitions and finally the world finals, this film leaves no stone unturned but is well edited and compelling throughout.

Driven on by a catchy, funky, soundtrack I found myself watching it more than once because it was so riveting.

You admire the endurance of those tackling the three-minute speed skipping, the free-style is endlessly creative while the team events will have you marveling at how so many complicated routines can be completed in unison.

If you get the chance to watch it, you should jump at the chance.