Confessions of Shopaholic

I'm not sure I understand the compulsion to shop. When I walk in to a store, I head straight for what I need. I rarely browse or buy over and above what I was looking for. Yet as I watched Confessions of a Shopaholic I began to see a bit of myself in Isla Fisher's 'Rebecca Bloomwood'. (Note: I've never read the books) I am addicted to Amazon.com. I buy everything and anything I want from that site. I peruse it everyday just to see if there is anything I might need. A new DVD, some more music, a new gadget for my blackberry. So in a way I am shopaholic. "My name is Rich and I am a shopaholic". lol . I like getting new things that make me feel better about myself.

That is one aspect that the film gets right. Rebecca is a clumsy, funny, good natured girl with a serious compulsion that has lead her into debt. The apt she shares with her roommate ( a character I felt the film forced on us) is packed with stuff. Clothes, shoes and accessories are everywhere. Her credit cards are maxed out and she is drowning in credit card bills. Although you'd think that paying her bills would be her first priority, its landing a job at Allet fashion magazine that takes precedent. Without giving too much more away, she meets a dreamy young professional and son of a socialite named Luke Brandon played by Hugh Dancy (Claire Danes real life Fiance). Hugh was very good in the film. He worked with what they gave him and was able to pull of a charming performance. Other notable supporting characters are Rebecca's parents played by Joan Cusack and John Goodman. I loved these two. They added a much needed warmth and mild humor to the film. John Goodman has been a favorite of mine for years. His heart shows through every line he delivers and doesn't disappoint here. I almost wish there were more scenes with them but this story is about Rebecca's life in the city and her addiction.

Although I found the film to be enjoyable and entertaining, it does have its share of problems. The pop music soundtrack is extremely overused. I mean every time we see a chick walking in heels its this hip hop laced pop song blasting out of the speakers. It's like we get it, chicks walking in heels equals booty thump. I will say there is one acoustic cover version of Cyndi Laupers 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun' that was very well done and came in at the right time. Then there was the CGI. You may ask what kind of effects would they have in this kind of film? Well its unexpected and I'll be honest kind of cool. However it is very distracting and not all together necessary. Also the story is far fetched. The villain in the movie or the 'Debt Collector' scenario is just not believable but it offers a good bit of balance. Finally, I hate to compare actress' but Isla is no Amy Adams. By that I mean I don't think Isla pulls off the funny, quirky girl to serious, dramatic moments as well as Amy Adams. I know its not a fair comparison but I just had to say it. Overall a lighthearted film that I think is made for teens or young twenty somethings? I am not entirely sure since it has blatant alcohol use and stories of bad debt and irresponsibility. Rich's Grade: C+