There has definitely been a multitude of "teenage
movies" come our way over the last few years. Some have been excellent whilst most
have been forgettable. Clueless, the Alicia Silverstone
vehicle, started the rejuvenation of the teenage film genre back in 1995 but,
unfortunately, few of the recent films have managed to capture the same sense of fun
and genuine wit that made Clueless such a delight. Until now...
Bring It On provides many genuine laughs and some very
cheesy ones as the lead character Torrence, played by Kirsten Dunst (Interview
With a Vampire), strives to keep the competitive edge for her team and keep
them at the top of the cheerleading nationals. Along with their tale of
striving for success this flick provides amazing choreography and eye-capturing gymnastic
feats with funky music and attitude.
It is a surprisingly inspirational tale, given the
materialistic and "surfacy" nature of the genre. During the first fifteen
minutes I thought I would be utterly bored by the bouncing blonde hair and many other
bouncing parts of the female anatomy but after that I was hooked (keep in mind my brother
claims that I'm the world's biggest feminist).
I felt little connection with the characters originally
but the relationship developed as I started to realise that there was far more to these
lively guys and girls than chirpy cheers. The real story begins when Torrence
discovers that everything that she's worked towards in her cheerleading career has been a
lie.
At this point the story becomes a tale of self
realisation and personal commitment to justice and integrity. Okay, now you think
you're reading a review for the latest Oliver Stone movie but I swear I'm telling the
truth. A healthy dose of reality challenges the morals and creativity of the team
and they are forced to face their relatively privileged existence and the battle between
good and evil within themselves.
Before I start making this sound like it's too serious
I must mention that it really "takes the piss" in quite a realistic and
refreshing way. Other mentionable sub-plots include the relationship between
Torrence and the "himbo" boyfriend who doesn't believe she is capable of
anything requiring neurons (her brain) and the new romantic interest played by Jesse
Bradford (Romeo & Juliet). Convincing roles are also
played by many of the bitchy individuals who would give cheerleaders their less than
flattering personality reviews.
Although this extremely Americanised film displays much
of what has become known as "The Dawson's Creek lingo" with cliched and somewhat
overcomplicated teenage jargon this in some ways adds to it's charm and realism.
Complete with bloopers, spirit fingers (these you have to see) and it's very own rendition
of the cheerleading favourite "Mickey" this movie provides a light-hearted
and at the same time morally up-lifting experience.
- Katie Flynn
