High Kicks and High Stakes

Read Time:4 Minute, 13 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Cheerleaders Wild Weekend [Special Edition] (The Great American Girl Robbery)
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Genre: Adventure, Crime, Sport, Thriller, Comedy
Year Released: 1979, 2024 MVD Rewind Collection Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Jeff Werner
Writer(s): D.W. Gilbert, Jason Williams
Cast: Kristine DeBell, Jason Williams, Wyatt Johnson, Wally Ann Wharton, Janet Blythe, Deslyn Bernet, Leslie King, Joan Wolff, Elizabeth Halsey, Marilyn Joi, Carmen Hayward
Where To Watch: available now, order here: www.mvdshop.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Set against the grainy world of 1970s exploitation films, CHEERLEADERS WILD WEEKEND, directed by Jeff Werner, rides the wave of the era’s guilty pleasures with a gleeful embrace of its crime-caper roots. This foray into the genre features spirited performances by Jason Williams, Kristine DeBell, and others, who navigate through a surprisingly complex tale that's as much about dramatic tension as unbridled flick it is. The film launches with a scene where three cheerleading teams are bound for a competition (setting expectations for a far different film than what we get) but soon find their journey is in danger, thanks to a confrontation with disgruntled ex-football players.

The cheerleaders' initial friendship and fun banter quickly become a battle for survival. Held captive in a secluded cabin, the squads are thrust into a psychological game with their abductors, led by the brooding Wayne, a role that Williams fills with intensity. This scenario flips the typical damsel-in-distress trope on its head, showcasing the cheerleaders’ cunning and resilience as they orchestrate their escape from their captors' clutches.

Also known under the moniker THE GREAT AMERICAN GIRL ROBBERY, the film explores deeper themes of disillusionment and redemption. The backstories of the kidnappers twist an intriguing and intricate serving of character development, painting these antagonists not just as villains but as deeply flawed individuals shaped by their failures.

Werner's directorial style shines as he handles the film's shifting tones. From the comedic hijinks of a mischievous beauty contest to the tense dynamics of a ransom operation, Werner maintains a brisk pace that keeps viewers waiting for what's next. This agility is a testament to the film’s ability to balance entertainment with a thoughtful examination of its characters’ motivations.

Editing punctuates the film’s rhythm, and the soundtrack complements its energetic tone. The film blends strategy with humor, underscoring its playful yet pointed critique of the exploitation genre.

The film doesn’t entirely dodge some of the more expected genre pitfalls. The pacing occasionally suffers, potentially jumbling the impact of some of the crucial plot points. Moreover, while the script delivers some sharp dialogue, it sometimes dips into the well of genre clichés a tad too often. It’s an experience that’s a mixed bag; there is a lot of what you would expect, but enough you won’t, making it a worthwhile journey!

CHEERLEADERS' WILD WEEKEND celebrates 70s cinema, encapsulating the era’s penchant for bold storytelling and unconventional flair. It may not be crafted as a highbrow art piece, but it captures the essence of its genre with confidence and style. This film offers a robust, if sometimes uneven, journey through a landscape filled with peril, laughter, and a defiant spirit of adventure. It is a must-watch for newcomers to the genre and those longing for cinematic nostalgia.

Bonus Materials:
High Definition (1080p) presentation of the main feature in 1.78:1 Aspect Ratio
English LPCM 2.0 Mono Audio
Optional English Subtitles
Audio Commentary featuring Director Jeff Werner, Actress Marilyn Joi, and Editor Gregory McClatchy
Audio Commentary featuring Star Kristine DeBell
Interview with Actress Kristine DeBell (SD, 10:55)
Interview with Actor Jason Williams (SD, 8:48)
Interview with Actress Marilyn Joi (SD, 14:39)
Interview with Actor Leon Isaac Kennedy (SD, 27:22)
Photo Gallery
Alternate Title Card
Original Theatrical Trailer (HD, 2:17)
Collectible Mini-Poster

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[photo courtesy of MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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