"Pitch Perfect" Review

Who would ever think that a bunch of music nerds singing a capella would be this much fun? Written by Second City alum Kay Cannon,  Pitch Perfect is a hoopla of girl power, catchy tunes and hilarity rolled up into a Pillsbury crescent roll. The oh-so lovable Anna Kendrick plays an angst-ridden DJ longing to move to California to produce music. Her father, a professor and divorcee, has offered to help her with this transition under the condition that she attempts one year in college. Beca quickly adapts with an internship at the school's radio station, but the social aspect proves trickier. That is, until Beca finds herself auditioning for the school's all-girl a capella group, the Barden Bellas.

Pitch Perfect
Starring: Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Elizabeth Banks
Directed by Jason Moore
My Opinion: Remarkably entertaining.

Pitch is a joyful ride from beginning to end. The songs are remarkably catchy and the performances are ri-donk, and I mean that in every sense of the word. I want to be clear that I am generally not a fan of musicals; that said, Pitch is a film with amazing musical performances. The female bonding is sweet and the rivalry between the Bellas and The Treble Makers intriguing. Consistant entertainment lies at this film's core.

I have heard some say that the comedy was a little "bro-y," but I appreciated the humor, which often involves bodily fluids. However, I did find some jokes a bit dated. Cynthia Rose (Ester Dean), a punky African American lesbian, is often making stereotypically butch remarks that don't quite tap the funny bone. Rather, the tolken gay character made me somehow uncomfortable, as if I were afraid for her next attempt at a generic joke. Each of her lines fall flat, but her voice is pretty stellar. The majority of the comedy packs a little more intellect.

Much like Reduced Guilt Macaroni and Cheese from Trader Joes, Pitch Perfect is a satisfying meal that's OK to enjoy. Anna Kendrick and Rebel Wilson are fantastic to watch (though you could probably play a dangerous drinking game taking a shot every time Beca says "seriously?"). Wilson has incredible timing and delivery, and I'm also looking forward to seeing more of Hana Mae Lee in the near future. Playing a corny announcer opposite John Michael Higgins, Elizabeth Banks is a little plastic but charming as usual. Overall, the casting is superb.

I'm not sure if I will be putting Pitch Perfect on the top shelf with my favorite flicks about chicks, but I have watched it three times in four days. I've also been singing all of the songs pretty much nonstop. Although there are little hiccups in the storyline and script, the lovable aspects strongly outweigh the negative. I for one feel quite gratified.