Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Whip It (2009)

This movie was enjoyable. It was by no means a cinematic masterpiece, but it definitely had a positive message, and delivered it a very formulaic, paint-by-numbers structure.
As Drew Barrymore's directorial debut, I'll give her props. This was a strong project, and a good choice made.
Zoe Bell, one of my female heros, did well in her supporting role, but could have used more screen time. Kristen Wiig showed off her chops in a featuring supporting role, so I was happy she got some deserved attention. But Juliette Lewis as the "bad" roller girl, stole the show. You know those shows when the villian is so obvious, but is also so amazing, that you want more evil, Lewis definitely oozes amazingness in this role.
To address the painfully obvious story arch, I think Barrymore might have wanted to play it safe, and that's why this film doesn't take any chances. The classic love story of girl getting involved with a boy, but then gets blown off, and then decides her passion is more important was a little obvious and plain (and the under the water love scene was just awkward).
By playing it safe I mean this film is about supposedly hardcore rockin roller derby chicks, but there was no significant profanity. This film would have had at least a smidge more credibility if Barrymore decided to make Whip It R rated and have more debauchery and more realistic language coming out of the roller girls.
Overall, this movie was decent, and if you're into roller derby girls in a PG-13 setting, then go for it!

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