I watched Bring It On and I liked it. 3/5
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“Bring It On,” the 2000 cheerleading comedy directed by Peyton Reed, has become something of a cultural touchstone since its release. The film, starring Kirsten Dunst and Gabrielle Union, delves into the hyper-competitive world of high school cheerleading, complete with high-flying stunts, peppy routines, and a hefty dose of teenage drama. Despite its energetic performances and memorable one-liners, the film ultimately struggles to rise above its formulaic plot and superficial treatment of serious themes. It earns a middling 3 out of 5 stars for its blend of entertaining choreography and missed opportunities.
The story centers on Torrance Shipman (Kirsten Dunst), who becomes the captain of the Rancho Carne High School cheerleading squad, the Toros, after the graduation of the previous captain. Torrance is determined to lead the squad to their sixth consecutive national championship. However, her leadership is quickly tested when she discovers that their championship-winning routines were stolen from the East Compton Clovers, a predominantly Black squad led by the fierce and talented Isis (Gabrielle Union). Faced with this revelation, Torrance must navigate the pressures of high school, the ethics of cheerleading, and the quest for redemption.
Kirsten Dunst brings a perky charm to the role of Torrance, managing to make her likable despite the character’s initial cluelessness. Dunst’s performance captures the youthful exuberance and earnestness of a high school cheerleader thrust into a leadership role she is ill-prepared for. Gabrielle Union, on the other hand, exudes confidence and determination as Isis, giving a performance that adds much-needed depth and gravitas to the film. The dynamic between Torrance and Isis is one of the film’s strengths, showcasing a rare example of mutual respect and rivalry.
The film’s choreography is undoubtedly one of its highlights. The cheer routines are vibrant, energetic, and expertly executed, providing a visual feast that keeps the audience engaged. These sequences, choreographed by Anne Fletcher, bring an authentic cheerleading experience to the screen and are a testament to the athletic prowess required in the sport. The stunts and dance numbers are meticulously crafted, and they provide a thrilling glimpse into the world of competitive cheerleading.
However, “Bring It On” falters when it comes to addressing its more serious themes. The film touches on issues of cultural appropriation, racial tension, and socioeconomic disparities but does so in a cursory manner. The rivalry between the Toros and the Clovers offers a prime opportunity to delve into these topics with more nuance and depth, but the film opts for a lighter, more comedic approach, which undermines its potential for meaningful commentary. The resolution of these conflicts feels rushed and overly simplistic, leaving much to be desired in terms of a deeper exploration of the issues at hand.
The film’s supporting characters, while amusing, often fall into stereotypical roles. Torrance’s squad members are a mix of quirky personalities, but they lack significant development beyond their surface traits. The romantic subplot involving Torrance and Cliff (Jesse Bradford) adds little to the overall narrative, serving more as a distraction than a meaningful storyline. Additionally, the film’s humor, while effective at times, can be hit or miss, relying on clichéd high school tropes and slapstick moments.
Despite its shortcomings, “Bring It On” remains an enjoyable watch, primarily due to its spirited performances and high-energy cheer routines. The film captures the infectious enthusiasm of cheerleading and the intense competition that drives it. Its iconic lines and memorable moments have cemented its place in pop culture, and for many, it’s a nostalgic trip back to the early 2000s.
In conclusion, “Bring It On” is a film that entertains but falls short of fully realizing its potential. It’s a fun, frothy cheerleading romp with moments of brilliance but is ultimately hampered by its reluctance to tackle deeper issues with the seriousness they deserve. For its lively performances, especially from Dunst and Union, and its dynamic cheer sequences, it earns a respectable 3 out of 5 stars. It’s a movie that, while not without its flaws, still manages to bring a smile to your face and a cheer to your heart.