Drew Barrymore’s directorial debut is very much how I see her – quirky, a bit rough around the edges, but at the end of the day a very fun experience. I really enjoyed this film and was disappointed that this film was not more commercially successful.
Whip It is the tale of a Texas teenager who shirks the beauty-pageant influence of an overbearing mother (Marcia Gay Harden) and goes on another course – a roller derby course, to be exact. There is much more to the story, specifically dealing with the cascading effect of Bliss’ joining the Hurl Scouts and what it means for her family relationships, friendships and potential love interests.
Of course much of the credit for making this a good viewing experience goes to Ellen Page, who seems to have the knack for playing fish out of water parts with a charm that is both grounded and endearing.
The cast also features a pre-Bridesmaids Kristen Wiig, Drew Barrymore, Eve, Daniel Stern and Juliette Lewis as leader of the rival roller derby team.
Another thing that I like about the film is in spite of it being set in the present, it has that nostalgic, 70’s feel to it. I think that this is due in part to the grain in which the film is shot. On a personal note, when I think of roller derbies, I think of the 1970’s for some reason. So maybe that mental association is at work in this instance.
In the end, this film clearly demonstrates the potential Drew Barrymore has a director. Hopefully in the future, she will continue to choose and direct projects as fun, inspiring and entertaining as this one.
Castor says
November 1, 2011 at 1:15 amEllen Page gives a solid performance here and even shows a little more range than usual, not being as much of a smarty pant here.
Ja Dawson says
November 1, 2011 at 8:04 amEllen Page is a great actress. Even in commercials. lol
Jack Deth says
November 1, 2011 at 11:05 amHi, iluv and company:
Great choice for an overlooked film!
I missed ‘Whip it’ when it first hit the theaters and caught it later on HBO. The wait was well worth it. As Ellen Page again delivers more than required under Drew Barrymore notable direction.
iluvcinema says
November 1, 2011 at 11:32 amMs. Barrymore has proven to be quite a talent. I am a major fan of hers. I tend to even like her rather daft rom-coms 🙂
Patti Abbott says
November 1, 2011 at 1:49 pmI wanted to see this but was outvoted by my husband who regards Ellen Page as too cute. What’s wrong with cute, I ask you.
iluvcinema says
November 1, 2011 at 1:52 pmToo bad. It plays on cable quite regularly now so definitely catch it if you can. And you are correct Patti – ain’t nothing wrong with cute 🙂
ruth says
November 2, 2011 at 2:10 pmI’ve never seen this one but I quite like Drew Barrymore. I haven’t seen her movies of late though. I might rent this someday.
Jaina says
November 8, 2011 at 8:27 amAbsolutely adore Whip It – it’s funny, heart warming and yet all without being overly cheesy or preachy. Great choice for an overlooked film! Definitely was.
iluvcinema says
November 8, 2011 at 8:40 amThanks Jaina and welcome to iluvcinema!