A little more product placement and lot more sass are two words to describe the sequel to 2012’s cultural phenomenon, Pitch Perfect. Leading the box office in its opening weekend, Pitch Perfect 2 does not miss a beat. As the Bella’s take the stage once again, this time aiming to win the world championships, audiences can look forward to bigger and better mash-ups as well as a refreshing change with original songs. However, what struck a chord is Writer Kay Cannon’s ability to portray the persona of Generation Y through the real and accurate dialogue.
Anna Kendrick’s performance as an aspiring music producer was, shall we say, perfect. Whether she was grabbing coffee as a new intern at Residual Heat or attempting to win at comebacks with her German revivals, Kendrick managed to bring forth the socially awkward and professionally struggling traits that all millennials can relate to. Of course, one cannot forget about Rebel Wilson, who stole the show with her brilliant, unexpected solo performance and hilarious portrayal of a confident, overweight Australian.
The diversity of the Bella’s must also be noted as audiences are introduced to new faces, including that of Spanish migrant, Flo, played by Chrissie Fit. Ester Dean’s and Hana Mae Lee’s reprisal as Cynthia Rose and Lilly completed the racial spectrum as a gay, black woman and a quiet Asian take the screen. Audiences can except instances that will leave them pleasantly surprised as Pitch Perfect 2 is what most sequels are not; fearless. Whether it was through the misogyny of ICCA commentator, John or racist and homophobic one-liners, it was clear that showcasing social issues and breaking cultural stereotypes was an ongoing, rather overt theme in the film.
As audiences follow the group on their road to redemption after an embarrassing scandal, they are likely to see what its predecessor was; an empowering film packed under a layer of song, dance, and comedy. Mix those elements up with several cameos from your favourite music personalities and a big, Hollywood budget- and thus, you’ll have the number 1 movie at the box office.
