Janey Glenn, a disciplined army brat, recently moves to Chicago and befriends the rebellious but spirited Lynne Stone. Janey has a passion for dancing, inspired heavily by a popular TV dance show. Despite her father's strict regulations, she sneaks out with Lynne to audition for a spot on the show. During the auditions, Janey partners with Jeff Malene, a carefree and skilled dancer. Though they initially clash, their determination to succeed in the competition brings them closer. As they practice, they face conflicts, including Jeff's rival, Natalie, who schemes to sabotage their chances.

The story centers on their journey to the finals of the dance-off, where they must overcome personal obstacles, anxieties, and external threats. As Janey and Jeff's bond strengthens, they find themselves working harder to perfect their routine against all odds. The climax hones in on their final performance, where the challenges they faced culminate in an exhilarating showdown. Throughout the film, themes of friendship, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams are explored, all set against a vibrant, music-driven backdrop that defines the mid-80s pop culture.