Many reviewers didn't like this picture, but my friend Kim and I really enjoyed it. After having a particularly tough week, I was looking to let loose and maybe I laughed at things that weren't that funny, but I didn't care. I'm a movie critic, not a psychiatrist.
My favorite part is the fact that everything is played straight while making fun of the figure-skating culture. I could definitely see where fans of this sport would be offended, but you can't take it seriously. The whole production is one big joke and the audience is just along for an open skating session.
I never thought I would comment about costumes, but you must see the outfits that the costume director, Julie Weiss, created. With each scene, I was on the edge of my seat to see what new piece of Lycra she would try to stuff Will Ferrell into. John Heder's flamboyant skating wardrobe also added just the right touch to his effeminate take on a professional skater.
Award-winning casting director Juel Bestrop put together a top-notch supporting cast and it was fun to see Craig T. Nelson back on the big screen as the coach.
According to the comedy rulebook, the three keys to comedy are setup, delivery and execution. For setup, I give the film a score of 7. It's pretty basic and the filmmakers didn't take many chances. For delivery, my score is 8. The talent handled the material with ease and enjoyment. Finally, for execution, I give "Blades" a 9. There were only a few minor technical problems that didn't distract from the performance.
Matt's awards ceremony — "Blades of Glory" wins the bronze. It's a funny movie but not worthy of a gold medal.
MATT BELLNER of Burbank is an actor, freelance writer and the manager of the Burbank Dirtstars, Burbank Park and Recreation league softball team.
