DUMPLIN' (2018)

Directed By: Anne Fletcher 
Written By: Kristin Hahn 
Based on the Novel By: Julie Murphy 
Cinematography By: Elliot Davis 
Editor: Emma E. Hickox 


Cast: Danielle MacDonald, Jennifer Aniston, Odeya Rush, Harold Perrineau, Dove Cameron, Maddie Baillio, Bex Taylor-Klaus, Kathy Najimy, Luke Benward, Georgie Flores 


Willowdean ('Dumplin'), the plus-size teenage daughter of a former beauty queen, signs up for her mom's Miss Teen Bluebonnet pageant as a protest that escalates when other contestants follow her footsteps, revolutionizing the pageant and their small Texas town.

This is a film that totally takes you off guard with how involved you get in the film and it’s characters.

This seems like a film perfectly suited for this film service NETFLIX. As they don’t seem to release movies like this in theaters anymore mid to low budget features that aren’t so strong or serious. They are more low key and not necessarily specific not that strong dramatically. As this film comes off more middle of the road that even with a big name star like Jennifer Aniston can guarantee a theatrical release, but certainly entice streaming services. As if this service had been around sooner this modern way of releasing and making films. The strong more independent films Starring her that at first seemed disposable and generic (MANAGEMENT, CAKE, LOVE HAPPENS) might have found it’s audiences sooner.

Just as star Danielle MacDonald’s previous film BABYCAKE$ might have if it went to streaming first. As it proved that unlike the past just because you make a splash at film festivals even the prestigious Sundance film festival, doesn’t guarantee a hot anymore or even that strong an advertising push.

As even teen films. Surely make it into theaters anymore unless sci-donor action oriented. As the Netflix produced hits TO ALL THE BOYS I’VE EVER LOVED and SIERRA BURGESS IS A LOSER. Find a home there or at Disney which will usually release them on their channel and be more young children then teens. As even a former Disney star Dove Cameron has a supporting role in this film.

There is an audience for these types of films even in theaters, but more and more audiences are fickle As movie prices go up. The studios as well as Adrienne’s aren’t as experimental and wide eyed. Rarely going in blind with that amount of an investment. As everyone wants more for their dollar. They want specifics they want to be thoroughly entertained and want to only go out to see something special, big and spectacular. They literally go hard or go home. So that the audience can feel like they are getting their money’s worth. Which is why everything more or less seems so grand special effects blockbuster type.

Even the star system is weakening as they can’t promise a hit. They might help in handicapping, but the movie still has to look exciting and entertaining. These rules aren’t set in stone but more a general audience for guideline it seems.

The film is quite charming, sweet, happy and ends up making you emotional yet feeling good. Where it leaves you constantly with a smile on your face and even In times of adversity it is quite humorous.

The film has enough pizzaz to win over most viewers, especially those who aren’t necessarily looking to like a film such as this.

Jennifer Aniston has struggled in her big screen movie choices. Here she proves herself as more than just a starlet. Here she proves herself to be more of an actress and gets stronger the more roles she plays. Especially ones that aren’t generic. Though I can admit ALONG CAME POLLY was one of her performances I enjoyed the most.

Danielle MacDonald stars and acts in another accents flawlessly. Yet this film kind of feels similar to her last starring role in BABYCAKE$ only here more heartwarming and innocent.

Like where the film takes place it’s filled with a down home sweetness that comes with the territories usual flavor and recipe. Where even thought having it on the regular is unhealthy. It’s hard to resist the flavor and juiciness and even if it is overflowing with ingredients that are bad in the long run. You just enjoy it while you have it and either try not o think about it later or you will just have to regret it later

Just as some plot points are troublesome, but you know the characters will make it through fine. Sort of like being presented a cupcake and then finding out it has no sugar in it. Rather it was made with refined or no sugar. Which might be cause for alarm at first but then again either way you are getting a dessert. So you might as well just enjoy it.

The film is general enough to not be too specific and have crossover appeal. While not strongly or stylistic filmmaking. It has heart and a message about acceptance especially self acceptance.

There is an innocence and purity to this movie that keeps you emotional and hoping for the best and practically best tears half the time. You are constantly expecting the worst, luckily it never comes. As there aren’t even really any villains. It’s predictable but like a fairy tale feels safe and comfortable.


Grade: B-