Sydney White (Widescreen Edition)
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DVD Cover Information
Actor: Amanda BynesBrand: NBC Universal
DVD: Region Code 1
Audio: English (Unknown), Dolby Digital 5.1; English (Subtitled); Spanish (Subtitled); French (Subtitled); English (Original Language), Dolby Digital 5.1; French (Dubbed), Dolby Digital 5.1
Format: AC-3, Color, Dolby, Dubbed, DVD, NTSC, Subtitled, Widescreen
Picture Format: 2.35:1
Running Time: 108 minutes
DVD Release Date: 2008-01-22
Audience Rating: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Universal Studios
Movie Reviews of Sydney White (Widescreen Edition)
Movie Review: Another sweet treat from Ms. Bynes, perfect for its target audience
Summary: 5 Stars
It's movies like this that the high-power film reviewers love tearing to shreds for their alleged lack of originality, and in a society where quirky comedies such as "Waitress" and "Juno" (the types of movies that Ebert and the others love to eat right up), perhaps we won't be seeing the more basic chick flicks at the next Academy Awards show. Setting all that aside, it doesn't take a genius to know that the opinions of the general public make a difference too, and if you're the kind of person who loves a sweet, deliciously cheesy chick flick with a nice moral behind it, you're going to love "Sydney White." The bottom line is that it all comes down to formula, and with comedic pro Amanda Bynes leading the way, there is plenty to love about this modern update of the age-old tale about "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs."
"Sydney White" tells the story of an 18-year-old high school graduate who, after being raised by her widowed father, is ready to experience college for the first time. Joining a top-notch sorority at her chosen university may not seem to fit right with Sydney's unique, non-conforming personality, but in this case, it's her own way of connecting with her deceased mother. Once there, trouble lurks with Kappa queen Rachel Witchburn, and if you are a female, you know all about what happens when a petty little high school/college girl decides she doesn't like you. From there, it's up to Sydney to find another way to make the most out of college, and when she befriends seven dorky guys from outside the general social circle, she may find more than her original plan could have offered her.
Again, Amanda Bynes has firmly established her sweet, genuine, and widely effervescent personality with films such as "What a Girl Wants" and "Hairspray," and perhaps most notably, her lead role in the hugely entertaining (and sadly short-lived) TV series "What I Like About You." Her role in this film doesn't break the mold from what she's done in the past, but it is true proof that Bynes knows what's she's good at, and there's no doubt that her loyal fan base will love her in this movie. As another reviewer has indicated, Bynes is easily one of the most underrated young star of her generation, but for those who appreciate her most, her films never disappoint. Her characters always have a good moral behind them, and I give the girl major props for keeping her head on straight in a society where it would be so easy for a star her age to go the other way. With her character Sydney, she does a nice job of showing that there's more to college than being a popular sorority girl. Still, before you assume that it's just another slam on contemporary Greek life, rest assured that the underlying message is about using your college experiences to do what makes you happy and maybe even help others along the way, no matter what it is.
Matt Long and Sara Paxton also turn in fun performances, if not a bit clichéd, but most people who go to see this movie in the first place won't mind that too much. They had to take on the age-old roles of the Prince Charming and Wicked Witch, but both managed to keep it completely lighthearted and enjoyable. Some have said that Paxton was not convincing enough, but I thought she nailed that "evil eye" and the nasty, b*tchy exterior perfectly, and Long had terrific chemistry with Bynes. I have to admit that I have never seen a guy serenade a girl with roses and a line of fraternity singers in a library (although it would be quite nice to experience), but if that scene annoys you, then you were probably never interested in the standard chick flick, anyway. Movies like this are supposed to entertain and provide a brief retreat from reality, so it's not really worth it to argue the plausibility of these things.
The Seven Dorks are also a delight (of the seven original characters, I noted Dopey, Grumpy, Doc, and Sleepy), and another unexpected gem is Crystal Hunt, whose name in the film (Dinky) is more than enough to describe her personality. Some might be annoyed by her, I guess, but as for me, she was a genuine scene-stealer who made me laugh every time she came on screen.
My only gripe with this overall successful and enjoyable movie is that as much as Amanda Bynes wants to gain some respect as a dramatic actress, I think she may be better off sticking with the comedy. I don't mean to be critical, because she truly is one of my favorite young actresses (not to mention a true class act compared to certain others), but she had a few emotional scenes here that called on her to cry and put on a pouty face, and I just could not buy into it. Maybe it's just that Bynes has established herself as a goofy, off-the-wall comedienne since she was about 9 years old, but she seemed to be trying way too hard with the drama. Perhaps she will improve with that as she gets older and takes on different types of roles, but again, Bynes is a born natural with comedy, and I hope she never strays from that.
Anyway, now that this is on DVD, it is a perfect movie to rent on a Saturday night and enjoy with some popcorn and good friends. If this is your kind of flick, then you know who you are, and the predictable, slightly corny plot will not bother you a bit (and in fact, it's exactly what makes it good!)
Summary of Sydney White (Widescreen Edition)
America's sweetheart Amanda Bynes stars in the fun comedy Sydney White! When tomboy Sydney (Bynes) is banished from the most popular sorority on campus, she is taken in by seven socially challenged but endearing guys. With the help of her new friends, Sydney stands up for outcasts everywhere and takes on the reigning campus queen in a popularity showdown! But can she succeed and also win the heart of gorgeous frat guy Tyler Prince? You'll love this hilarious and sweet age-old story with a charming modern-day twist! Starring: Amanda Bynes, Sara Paxton, Matt Long, Jack Carpenter, Jeremy Howard, Crystal Hunt, John Schneider Directed by: Joe NussbaumSimilar DVD Movies
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