Luckily for “Pitch Perfect,” the good outweigh the bad in
this fun but predictable story about an all-girl a cappella singing group.
Inspired by the 2009 nonfiction book Pitch
Perfect: The Quest for Collegiate A Cappella Glory by Mickey Rapkin, this
movie showcases a collegiate subculture in all its competitive glory. Beca
(Anna Kendrick) goes to college against her will, prodded by her professor
father. What she really wants is to produce music. Her first move is to get a
job at the campus radio station, where she meets fellow music fan and singer
Jesse (Skylar Astin). A sorta friendship begins. Beca is roped into joining The
Bellas, a female a cappella group, by Chloe (Brittany Snow), who hears her
singing in the dorm shower. Soon, Beca becomes a key member of this group of
lovable musical misfits. The funniest of the bunch is Amy (Rebel Wilson), who
calls herself ‘Fat Amy’ because she figures that’s what the others will call
her behind her back. Then there’s Lilly (Hana Mae Lee), an Asian girl who
speaks in barely audible whispers (but pay attention to what she’s saying.) The
Bellas take on the all-male Treblemakers (which Jesse joins) in the national
competition. In between singing groups, we get funny quips from commentators
John (John Michael Higgins) and Gail (Elizabeth Banks) a la Best in Show.
Kendrick, who is also in End
of Watch, proves her versatility and much of the movie hinges on her
likable outsider character. The bonds of sisterly friendship forged between
Beca and her singing companions are just as important as the results of their
big Lincoln Center sing-off. So the movie succeeds in spite of some painful
stereotypes, a tepid romance, and projectile vomiting. Plus you’re not supposed
to ask how the Bellas get so good so fast. Nonetheless, the musical numbers are
quite good and “Pitch Perfect” is enjoyable fluff. 10/1/12
1 comment:
I loved the a cappella sounds but the story was a little thin. It sort of reminded me of an after school special.
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