Whip It
2009 · Directed by Drew Barrymore
Original language: English
- drama
The story
In Bodeen, Texas, an indie-rock loving misfit finds a way of dealing with her small-town misery after she discovers a roller derby league in nearby Austin.
What it’s like
Bright, saturated daylight and warm, sun-faded Texas colour give this one a lively, sunny glow, shifting to pulsing neon and crowded, sweaty arena lights once the rink takes over. Handheld, energetic camerawork follows the skaters through loud, crowded bouts, while the indie-rock soundtrack carries much of the momentum, with bursts of garage and punk swagger keeping every scene bouncing. The vibe is scrappy, exhilarated and warm: small-town boredom and wry teenage frustration give way to joyful, rowdy release. Pacing is brisk and playful, with comedy and sincerity sitting side by side. The emotional arc follows a restless young woman finding her footing among a tight-knit group of misfits and discovering a place where she belongs. Intensity is moderate: rough-and-tumble contact sport, a few bruising falls and blunt, mouthy teen humour, with some drinking and sexual innuendo, but no real cruelty. It suits a lively Friday night, a cheerful comfort rewatch, or anyone wanting a feel-good, big-hearted story about friendship and finding your own tribe, especially fans of underdog sports films.
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