the Mind’s Chew Toy

Looking for something fun and light-hearted? Bring It On may be just what you want.

Instead of going the easy route, and spoofing the cheerleaders, as so many have done in the past, they try to show that cheerleaders work hard, too.

The movie doesn’t try too hard, though. It seems as if all the actors had a great time working on this film, and it definitely shows. You want to watch it partly because they are obviously having so much fun with it.

The plot was pretty good. The new captain of the squad (Dunst) has to deal with a lot of unexpected things, and the film moves pretty well throughout, with no really slow parts that would drag down a comedy. The jokes are well-written and aren’t forced. While the plot may be a bit simple, it works well with the movie, which is a little simple in it’s own right.

The characters are well acted. They seemed to have a great time making the movie, and them letting that show helps the movie as much as following their character does. Kirsten Dunst was surpisingly good as the lead cheerleader, and Eliza Dushku (Faith from TV’s “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”) plays a much different character than I’m used to seeing, and does it well (although I do miss Faith - “Buffy” could use her right about now).

Most of the special effects in this movie are here for one reason - using stunt doubles and making them seem like the same person. According to one of the DVD extras, the only time the actors didn’t do the stunts themselves was the flipping routine Eliza does near the beginning of the film. If so, I’m more impressed with the actors than I was before - some of the jumps are amazing!

The DVD extras are extensive, as well. From the trailer and a music video to deleted scenes and even an anecdotal version of the movie, this one has pretty much everything you would want.

All in all, Bring It On brings a great light-hearted hour and a half of fun. Rent it, or buy it, today if you’re in the mood for a laugh.