Synopsis: A rebellious teen finds a way to escape her miserable small town life by joining a roller derby league.
Release Date: October 9, 2009 MPAA Rating: PG-13
Genre(s): Comedy, Drama
Film Review
Production
Watching this movie is an experience. Everyone on screen is having such a great time it resonates into the audience. You want to cheer at times, scream at others, and rage against for reasons I will not divulge for fear of ruining some of the best parts. Ellen Page shines as Bliss, a girl stuck in a small town who is awkward and shy while being absolutely endearing. Watching her come out of her shell and grow as she finds her passion, in roller derby, is delightful. I will say this with much trepidation, this movie is a bit of a “chick” flick. It can appeal to everyone, as any movie has the power to do, but it is incredibly full of female empowerment. It is what lies at the core of the entire movie. Men take a back seat here. What is great for its very feminist viewpoints is how it is a mixture of the feminine and the masculine. These are not girly girls but they are also far from being pegged as manly women. It provides a great blend of displaying your independence as a woman while retaining the mystique of being a woman. These women have personality and watching them on screen is time well spent.
Action Sequences
The only action you are going to see in this movie is roller derby action. Albeit not very fast-paced, and it is sporadic as the actual sport is done in quick segments of time, it is great to watch. Who knew these women were so tough on the rink. They kick each other, throw elbows, trip one another, and all out brawl constantly. These women may be hot, but they can also kick some serious you know what.
Comedy Factor
“I work at the oink joint”. If that line does not conjure up the comedic possibilities this movie holds for you then well, there is something wrong with you. Sarcasm aside, this film is perfectly funny and dramatic all at the same time. It never takes itself too seriously resulting in a great time for everyone, with plenty of laughs included along the way.
Cast and Crew
- Director(s): Drew Barrymore
- Screenwriter(s): Shauna Cross
- Cast: Ellen Page (Bliss Cavendar), Drew Barrymore (Smashley Simpson), Juliette Lewis (Dinah Might), Zoe Bell (Bloody Holly), Kristen Wiig (Malice in Wonderland)
- Editor(s): Catherine Marie Thomas
- Cinematographer: Robert D. Yeoman
- Production Designer(s): Kevin Kavanaugh
- Country Of Origin: USA
