Fabulous (pardon the intended stereotypical expression)

Rating: 8/10 (25 November 2010)

I had my doubts walking into this film who wouldn't. Sure the trailers looks glitzy, fun and kinda silly but how often does that turn out well especially with the acting debut of a musical star. The film has so many things stacked against it and if I were to be extremely critical I'm sure I could pick apart the performances and generic somewhat clichéd plot but I had so much fun watching it I can't help but to give it the highest of my reccomendations and for so many reasons. First up here's the stick thin plot Poor girl named Ally(Aguleira) moves from Iowa to LA in pursuit of being a star. She comes across a flailing Burlesque club run by a tough as nails diva (Cher) who gives her a shot in the show and she ends up saving the club to some extent with her powerful voice. It all sounds fairly miserable I will admit. But the movie is told in such an energetic, visually exciting and light hearted way it's hard not too be instantly engaged by the films slightly amateur but exciting execution and dare I say it an engaging, charming but somewhat uneven lead performance from Christina Aguleira. there's some nice multi layered supporting turns from Kristen Bell, Stanley Tucci and a phenomenal much welcome share. And there's some delicious eye candy in the form of a scantily clad and one point nude Cam Gigandet of Twilight. The songs are fun, the choreography tight and exciting and the cinematography is so visually enticing from the a flashing light spectacle to the soft hues of a dark stage reflected off of Cher's facade during a powerful ballad. It's no doubt that the film definitely brings out the gay in and anyone who knows me knows it's also true that I relish camptastic films such as Showgirls, Elvira Mistress of the Dark, Rocky Horror Picture Show and Coyote Ugly among many others. And Like those films it's hard to see the bad in those films such as this one when I so completely enjoy them. there is a raw, seductive energy to this film and it feels fresh and unique. I'm afraid it might flop but it's no doubt prime real estate for cult status. It's everything I could have hoped for in all the right ways. It's fabulous!