Review of Whip It (2009) by Daniel K — 04 Nov 2010
3: It was very pleasantly surprised by this one. I can think of few other films like it, and not just because it's ostensible subject is female roller derby. I can't say I ever knew a sport like this existed, but it seems pretty entertaining here.
What really makes the picture unique is the tone, the dialogue, and the performances. It have to think it has something to do with Barrymore, who in some ways is as close to Hollywood royalty as we're ever likely to get again.
The film manages to wink and nod at its numerous clichà (C)s without letting them overwhelm the film; they even end up being an incredible strength. All the inspirational and coming of age conventions seem fresh and new here.
The dialogue seems nonchalant and loose, even as it is very staged. The performances seem genuine and the actors always seem like they are just having way too much fun. The cast is pretty spectacular for this kind of film; Page, Harden, Wiig, Eve, Lewis, Barrymore, Fallon, Bell, Stern, etc are all right on the mark.
I can't quite put my finger on all the various elements that led to the film seeming so darn different, but I certainly felt it and knew it when it saw it. It'll be fascinating to watch if Barrymore is able to pull this feeling off again.
I doubt she'll be up to the challenge, but I guess we'll see.
This review of Whip It (2009) was written by Daniel K on 04 Nov 2010.
Whip It has generally received positive reviews.
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