As is Mr. Wormald. He has energy but no real magnetism, and while he may be in possession of what are technically known as “moves,” his dancing lacks sensuality and a sense of release. Much better is Miles Teller, as Willard, Ren’s drawling sidekick — Mater to his Lightning McQueen, if you’ll permit a “Cars” reference. With his scarecrow limbs and slack features, Mr. Teller has a natural charisma that is both comic and kind of sexy.

“Footloose” could use more of that, but Mr. Brewer’s expertise — as shown in his previous films, “Hustle & Flow” and “Black Snake Moan” — lies in pulpy vulgarity and florid melodrama. These elements certainly have a place in this movie, as does the director’s evident affection for the music and idioms of the South. Apart from the inevitable ’80s-throwback and popped-up hip-hop tracks, the music in this “Footloose” is better and more eclectic than the original, with some blues, country and vintage metal mixed in with the peppy dance tunes.

But to be effective, a pop confection like this needs just the right mix of silliness and sincerity, so that you believe both that a lot is at stake in the battle over dancing and that, in the end, it’s really just dancing. Somehow “Footloose” never finds its rhythm. The maudlin scenes drag on, and the livelier moments pass by too quickly. It only works when it settles down and lets the characters (and the audience) hang out and have a little fun. Which is all kids really want to do. Why does everyone make it so difficult?

“Footloose” is rated PG-13 (Parents strongly cautioned). Dancing implies other vices and causes some conflict.