Reality competitions like America's Best Dance Crew 2 sometimes walk a fine line. On the one hand, you need to set up some creative limitations in order to have each week be different. On the other hand, sometimes you get a little gimmicky, as in the case of this week. I didn't mind the use of props or the need for the crews to use their motions create their own beats, but both at the same time? It seemed like a bit much for one very brief dance routine.

I think the overabundance of requirements for this show actually hamstrung at least one of the crews, and this week, that's where I'm going to start, with the crew I felt had the weakest performance first.

 

WORST

I love Fanny Pak, but I have a specific problem with their answer to this challenge, and that was the actual dancing part suffered due to the attention to the props and the skit. In past challenges, they have been masterful at telling a complex story while using props without compromising on the quality or interest of their dancing. This week I felt like the main dance section was pretty basic and uninteresting compared to the skit-related shenanigans and their dance routines in the past. It felt kind of pasted it and as though it wasn't given the same amount of energy or focus at the skit sections.

Additionally, all the action on stage made it a little difficult to follow. This also might be a camera work/editing issue as I felt like it has been sometimes difficult for the production team to decide what to focus on when the crews are using a lot of the stage and have various planes of action to focus on.

BEST

I led with the worst because where I felt Fanny Pak was lacking is precisely where I felt the two best crews were strongest.

Super Cr3w delivered their usual stunt-filled, daredevil type of routine, but having been so thoroughly chastised by JC Chasez in the past, they still worked in solid dance sections that were still focused on the theme. It was a more cohesive and thorough effort than what we saw from Fanny Pak. Their teamwork and ability to gel as a group also helped keep what could easily become chaotic very clear and watchable.

I felt that the eliminated crew Supreme Soul did the same thing. As JC pointed out, these guys made smart choices in their routine. And, actually, throughout their time on America's Best Dance Crew 2. Their routines were also so detailed and thoughtful, really incorporating the elements of their theme thoroughly but subtly, so it never felt too gimmicky or shtick-y. They did a great job for their last show.

THE REST

SoReal Cru didn't blow me away, but I did finally figure out what I like so much about the group when Shayne Sparks commented on their groove. I think that SoReal Cru might not be as explosive as Super Cr3w or as humorous as Fanny Pak, but of the remaining crews, they have the best groove. When they get into their choreography, they bring a loose sexiness to their moves that none of the other crews but A.S.I.I.D. has had.

Boogie Bots continues to not quite match the level of the other crews, but once again had a really fun and clever moment in the end with Flashdance water cooler and “Maniac” dance.

With Supreme Soul out of the picture, and the admonishment from the judges this week for the voting, will Super Cr3w's fans rally and keep them safe and back in those top spots we saw them in earlier? We'll find out on next week's episode of America's Best Dance Crew 2.

- Leslie Seaton, BuddyTV Staff Columnist

(Image courtesy of MTV)