But I'm a Cheerleader

Avec But I’m a Cheerleader, on entre dans l’univers stylisé d’une comédie pour ados aux couleurs pastel criardes et dans laquelle on aborde les cinq étapes d’un programme de « désintox » conçu pour la rééducation des homosexuels. Jamie Babbit parvient à satiriser avec beaucoup d’humour le besoin qu’ont les Américains à toujours devoir corriger les autres et les « remettre sur le droit chemin ». C’est franchement drôle à certains moments, assez audacieux à d’autres, et, dans tous les cas, c’est une comédie pendant laquelle il est très difficile de s’ennuyer et qui n’en fait pas trop, ne s’impose pas et procure une expérience éminemment positive. [LFŠ 2019] (17/08/2019)

The sympathetic and unfairly overlooked teenage comedy set in a reorientation center for homosexuals, which in a way surpasses many thematically similar "creations" of its time, as it can easily and humorously present the core troubling issues that gays and lesbians face. Natasha Lyonne in the lead role was adorably innocent and fit there like a butt on a pot. The film contains plenty of homosexual jokes and references, but everything is presented with a strong satirical flavor, so do not expect it to be a celebration of homophobia. The influence of John Waters films is clearly evident here, but it certainly does not reach the same heights of bizarreness as Waters – But I'm a Cheerleader is bizarre just enough to maintain some meaningful value. I enjoyed the first half more, in the second half it focuses more on the romantic side of the film and there I was a little lost. The ending is a classic Hollywood cliché, which I don't hate significantly, but I can't say it satisfied me either. However, I had fun and I give a thumbs up to the creators – if only because this film still has something to offer twenty years after its creation. Plus, I think similarly themed films will do greater service to the queer community than tedious weepy dramas like The Danish Girl. A solid 3*. (04/08/2019)