Dunst & Dushku in a fun movie

Rating: 7/10 (6 September 2003)

There are two ways a viewer can appreciate this movie. First, you can like it as an enjoyable, energetic teen movie that pokes fun at the earnestness of high school cheerleaders and cheerleading competition. Yet, it doesn't cross the line into cynicism, since even the characters critical of these peppy but serious cheerleaders get with the program by the end. The other major attraction, of course, is the eye candy. The viewer gets over 90 minutes of Kirsten Dunst and Eliza Dushku in cheerleader outfits. (There's even a bikini/car wash scene.)
All pitch in to make the movie fun. The writers maintain the lighthearted balance throughout. The director keeps the plot moving quickly, and the cast seems to be enjoying themselves. All this encourages the viewer to go along with the ride.