Ellie Crisp tells us why Pitch Perfect 2 is acca-awesome.
[dropcap size=small]D[/dropcap]ON’T YOU, FORGET ABOUT ME: is what I sang as I strolled into the theatre. The iconic The Breakfast Club song was ringing in my ears as I found my seat two rows from the front. It was the price I had to pay for not pre-booking. But I was prepared for the extensive neck craning as the long-awaiting sequel of Pitch Perfect was about to come on.
Five minutes in and I was presented with the imminent threat of Rebel Wilson’s (a.k.a. Fat Amy) bum and vagina in my face. Now it’s not just my neck that hurts. The catchy music mash-ups, the exaggerated dance moves to accompany, and the question “Is that actually Barack Obama?” that I never thought I’d be asking. I’m immediately acca-captivated.
For those of you who loved Jesse in the first film; prepare to be disappointed. He is relatively absent throughout the film, apart from spontaneously paying thousands of dollars to fly to Copenhagen to watch the Bellas try to claim the World Accapella title. Unattainable relationship goals is all he is contributing.
The Bella’s competition in this film is “Das Sound Machine” i.e. multiple Germans in a series of black mesh outfits. Prepare to be equally aroused and terrified, and feel the full force of the Germanic clichés.
Speaking of stereotypes, the amount of casual racism and sexism at times did generate a few “should I really be laughing?” laughs in the theatre. The film however did showcase and celebrate many ethnicities and managed to pass the Bechdel Test, so I can put these thoughts to rest.
Out of all the songs, one that will probably get people talking is surprisingly “Winter Wonderland” sung by Snoop Dogg. Snoop Dogg and a Christmas song in the same scene. The film awards you with many surprises.
All in all, the film was consistently upbeat and entertaining, and great if you want to lift your spirits post-exams. Although, I am left considering what really a flashlight is.
Ellie Crisp