Stick It

Missy Petegrym stars in this "perfect for summer flick" about a rebellious teenage tomboy, whose brushes with the law put her in the precarious position of choosing between Juvenile Hall and the gym. Petegrym is believable as Hailey, a former world class competitive gymnast, who must set aside past cynicism toward the system and turn the odds once again in her favor. Jeff Bridges co-stars as the accidentally successful coach of a brood of catty gymnasts and Hailey's unlikely mentor. Fans of "Bring It On" will appreciate the humor and soundtrack of this alternative view of the gymnastics world, complete with music video-like sequences and comedic "call up" catfights. On a more serious level, "Stick It" questions the unflinching scoring system of the world of competitive gymnastics and reveals it to be biased and antiquated. Creativity and innovation by competitors is viciously stifled as judges stretch the notion of fairness to justify point deductions. Perhaps the system needs an overhaul?

Not "Brian's Song" or "Chariots of Fire" by any means, but a good flick to unwind with after a long week at school or the office. Teenage girls in particular will cackle over the "yo mama" style dialogue between the gymnasts and love the hip-hop incorporations fused with traditional gymnastic routines.

This is probably the only forum where Jeff Bridges on a trampoline fits well into the storyline....