Review of Sierra Burgess Is a Loser (2018) by Iipotato — 10 Sep 2018

The movie's actors and actresses are amazing, first of all. Shannon Purser does a fantastic job at expressing emotion, Kristine Froseth and RJ Cyler deliver lines so naturally, and so on. I loved the cast, but not the movie itself.

Sierra Burgess had character development that spiraled incredibly backwards. As many have said across over platforms, Veronica is the more developed and meaningful character as the movie progresses. I applaud the movie for not using the typical weight loss themes in order to feel beautiful. But, I really didn't like how the movie obviously tries to force you to empathize with Sierra at the football scene, when she really is at fault! Jamie, under the belief that he was actually dating someone, would obviously kiss that person! And Veronica had little time to explain herself, if none at all. I'm immensely frustrated at how much improvement there is in Veronica and Sierra's friendship, and how it immediately goes to waste from misunderstanding. Sierra's best friend, Dan, is a character who deserved more light as well. A supportive and humorous person, Dan is easily pushed aside so quickly by Sierra like a -- well, side character.

Movies are supposed to focus on the main character. I get that. But my biggest qualm about this movie is how it completely belittles the development of the supporting characters and treats them as solely supporters/followers to Sierra rather than characters who choose to be around her while also recognizing their own worth.

Sierra could have been a great character for more than just the first half, really. I feel like the writers shouldn't have made the kiss at the field as the changing point.