Third Pitch Perfect Installment Falls A Bit Flat
- Starring Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Brittany Snow, Anna Camp, Hailee Steinfeld, Elizabeth Banks, John Michael Higgins, John Lithgow
- Rated PG-13
- Comedy/Musical
- Run time: 1 hr, 33 min
- Directed by Trish Sie
- In theaters December 22, 2017
Fans of the Pitch Perfect series may not necessarily be in it for the plot at this point, but when it comes to the third film featuring these characters, the plot seems to be like the last thing the creators were focusing on. There are the standard amusing moments that the audience has come to know and enjoy. The musical numbers are still on par with the first few that wowed the crowds (including an Anna Kendrick finale number that truly makes me hope that she someday releases an album) but they just don't fit in to the story like they used to.
So little attention is paid to the plot and the previous movies within the series that you could basically jump in without knowing anything more than "these girls sing without instruments." There's a baffling action sub-story that barely fits in with the rest and the entire premise (a USO tour that includes not only an a capella group that only exists at a college prior to this film but also a contest that rewards participants with a DJ Khaled collaboration) lacks any believability that the first two carried.
The pros for this franchise is definitely its ability to depict female friendships and the fact that they do have many talented performers singing the songs that get stuck in your head. Watching the quieter moments between the girls when they have their downtime is a wonderful look into the world of twenty-somethings who know their girlfriends are some of the best things in her life. The aimless wondering of a young woman trying to find her way is also a welcome, relatable facet of the tale, but it is hidden under the bombastic scramblings of a movie trying to find its way.
Fans of the series will probably enjoy one more peak into the lives of characters they love, but even those who have been whistling "Cups" since the first film have to admit that this franchise may have worn itself out. That being said, the movie is worth the watch for anyone who appreciates the songs that come out of these movies. A few laughs and a few songs you won't stop singing do help counter the insanity that is the plot. Just make sure that when you're singing along you hold on for the crazy ride.