by Ryan Burton

Created on: October 22, 2009   Last Updated: February 22, 2011

Although some may perceive the film "Whip It" as a girl- comedy, the movie succeeds on levels of reality with its characters, and the aggressive prowess of female roller derby that make it more than a bump-in-the-night type of film.

Since becoming a fan actress Ellen Page (best known for films like "Hard Candy," and the widely popular "Juno"), I was interested to learn that she had signed up with Drew Barrymore (who also makes her directorial debut) for this film. For starters, after watching so many of Ellen's past films, I'm totally convinced that she could carry off any type of performance that she wants to. However, at the same time, I felt that starring in this film maybe a little risky because the film could go the full wrong way of being stupid with a comedic plot, and not take itself seriously.

My fears grew more after seeing the trailer to "Whip It" on the web. At first you  think this is just going to be a typical coming of age story which it is, and that it will INDEED be just a stupid comedy. I took it upon myself to read the book "Derby Girl" (which the film is adapted from) by Shauna Cross; an actual roller derby girl for the state of Texas. Basically, Cross tells the story (a biography in a way) about Bliss Cavendar, a young girl who's mother forces her into beauty pageants. However, young Bliss finds a true passion for the sport of roller derby, and decides to join the team (without her parents conscent). While I did enjoy the book, there were times I wished it could have been fleshed out more rather than having the whole story be told from the point of view of Bliss.

That alone is what I'm happy for the most in this film. That Drew Barrymore worked closely with Cross on the script  to make the plot feel more three dimensional rather than two like the book was. The characters became more vital than what Shauna had made them, and I'm glad she corrected that error with this film. A prime example was with the character Maggie Mayhem. While there is moments where she is a mentor for Bliss, they give her character more texture by adding a son which helps give tender moments to the film.

I was truly impressed with the roller derby sequences. For a first time director, I think Drew did a fantastic job in the way she choreographed the action. She showed how you can get a bloody nose, or have your glasses busted like Ellen's character does. It just hits you in the gut when you watch these moments,

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