Written by Jonis Huynh
Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Are you ready to bring it on? Well, get ready to dive into the world of cheerleading and high school drama with the iconic movie, “Bring It On.” Released in 2000, this teen comedy quickly gained a cult following and became a pop culture phenomenon. With its catchy one-liners, energetic dance sequences, and relatable characters, it’s no wonder that “Bring It On” has become a beloved classic.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the movie and uncover 34 fascinating facts that you may not know about “Bring It On.” From behind-the-scenes secrets to memorable audition stories, we’ll explore everything that went into making this film a fan favorite. So grab your pom-poms, put on your best cheerleading outfit, and get ready to be entertained as we reveal the untold secrets of “Bring It On!”
Key Takeaways:
- Bring It On is a popular teen movie inspired by real cheerleading experiences. It’s a fun, feel-good film with catchy cheers and a message about integrity and teamwork.
- The movie’s success led to sequels and a Broadway show. It’s loved for its humor, diverse cast, and cultural impact, making it a timeless favorite for fans of all ages.
Cheerleading Inspiration
The movie Bring It On was inspired by the real-life experiences of screenwriter Jessica Bendinger, who was a cheerleader in high school.
Box Office Success
Bring It On was a surprise box office hit, grossing over $90 million worldwide against a budget of $11 million.
The Kirsten Dunst Connection
Kirsten Dunst, who played the lead role of Torrance Shipman, had previously worked with the movie’s director, Peyton Reed, in the film “Down with Love.”
Iconic Cheers
The movie introduced iconic cheers like “Brr, it’s cold in here, there must be some Toros in the atmosphere!” This catchphrase became a popular reference among cheerleaders and fans.
Competition Among Studios
The script for Bring It On was so popular that it sparked a bidding war among multiple studios before Universal Pictures won the rights.
A Diverse Cast
The movie was praised for its diverse cast, showcasing different races and backgrounds within the cheerleading squads.
Eliza Dushku’s Breakout Role
Bring It On marked a breakthrough role for Eliza Dushku, who played the sassy and talented cheerleader Missy Pantone.
Real Cheerleaders as Extras
The film hired real cheerleaders as extras to bring authenticity to the cheerleading scenes.
Dance Choreography
The choreography in Bring It On was designed by Anne Fletcher, a renowned choreographer who went on to direct films like “Step Up” and “27 Dresses.
Critics’ Acclaim
Despite being a teen comedy, Bring It On received positive reviews from critics for its sharp writing, humor, and performances.
A Quotable Movie
Bring It On is known for its memorable quotes and one-liners that have become pop culture references, such as “I’m sexy, I’m cute, I’m popular to boot!”
Soundtrack Success
The movie’s soundtrack featured popular songs like “Hey Mickey” by Tony Basil and “As If” by Blaque, which contributed to its commercial success.
Fashion Trends
Bring It On influenced fashion trends, with cheerleading uniforms and spirit wear becoming popular among teenagers at the time of its release.
A Franchise is Born
Bring It On spawned a successful franchise, with several direct-to-video sequels and even a Broadway musical adaptation.
East Compton Clovers
The rival cheerleading squad, the East Compton Clovers, brought a new perspective to the movie, highlighting the disparities in resources between schools.
Los Angeles Locations
The movie was primarily filmed in Los Angeles, California, capturing the vibrant and energetic atmosphere of the city.
Kirsten Dunst’s Training
Kirsten Dunst trained with a cheerleading coach for two months to prepare for her role as Torrance Shipman.
The Big Red Controversy
The character of Big Red, played by Lindsay Sloane, faced backlash for perpetuating stereotypes about red-haired individuals.
Satirical Elements
Bring It On used satire to critique the competitive nature of cheerleading and the obsession with winning.
Cultural Impact
Bring It On became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a generation of young girls to join cheerleading squads and embrace the sport.
Torrance’s Character Arc
Torrance’s character arc in the film focuses on her growth as a leader and her determination to make things right with the rival squad.
The Spirit Stick
The movie introduced the concept of the “spirit stick,” a symbol of unity and teamwork within the cheerleading community.
Peyton Reed’s Directing Debut
Bring It On marked Peyton Reed’s feature film directorial debut, setting him on a path to direct popular films like “Ant-Man” and its sequel.
Cliff Pantone’s Character
The character of Cliff Pantone, played by Jesse Bradford, serves as a love interest for Torrance and brings a fresh perspective to the cheerleading world.
Tension Between Schools
Bring It On explores the intense competition and rivalry that exists between different cheerleading squads and the lengths they go to win.
Accurate Portrayal of Cheerleading
Cheerleaders praised the movie for its accurate portrayal of the physical demands and dedication required to be a cheerleader.
Political and Social Commentary
Beneath the surface, Bring It On subtly addressed issues of race, class, and privilege within the context of high school cheerleading.
National Cheerleaders Association
The movie prominently features the National Cheerleaders Association’s competitions and reflects the competitive nature of cheerleading on a national scale.
Collaboration with Real Cheerleading Squads
The filmmakers collaborated with real cheerleading squads to ensure authenticity in the movie’s cheerleading routines and stunts.
A Feel-Good Movie
Bring It On is a feel-good movie that combines comedy, drama, and sports elements, making it enjoyable for a wide range of audiences.
Awards and Nominations
Bring It On received two Teen Choice Awards nominations for Choice Movie: Comedy and Choice Movie: Comedy Actress (Kirsten Dunst).
Cultural References
The movie references popular culture of the time, including nods to Jennifer Aniston’s hairstyle from “Friends” and the dance moves from “Saturday Night Fever.”
Longevity
Even after two decades, Bring It On continues to be beloved by fans and is often regarded as one of the best teen movies of its era.
A Sign of the Times
Bring It On reflects the spirit of the early 2000s, capturing the fashion, slang, and musical trends that defined the era.
Bring It On is a high-energy teen comedy that brings the cutthroat world of high school cheerleading to the big screen. The movie follows the story of Torrance Shipman, played by Kirsten Dunst, who becomes the captain of the Rancho Carne High School cheerleading squad. When Torrance discovers that their previous routines were stolen from the East Compton Clovers, a rival cheerleading squad, she must find a way to lead her team to victory while also setting things right with the Clovers.
Directed by Peyton Reed, Bring It On gained popularity for its witty writing, memorable performances, and catchy cheers. The movie not only explores the physical demands and competitive nature of cheerleading but also touches on deeper themes such as race, class, and teamwork. With its diverse cast, iconic quotes, and infectious spirit, Bring It On has become a cult classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
The success of Bring It On led to several sequels, spin-offs, and even a Broadway musical adaptation. However, the original film remains a timeless favorite, reminding us of the power of teamwork, the importance of integrity, and the joy of embracing our passions.
Conclusion
Bring It On is a cult classic movie that continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of cheerleading, comedy, and high school drama. From its memorable one-liners to its energetic dance routines, the film has left a lasting impact on pop culture. The dynamic performances by Kirsten Dunst, Gabrielle Union, and the rest of the cast, combined with the strong direction of Peyton Reed, make Bring It On a must-watch for fans of the genre.
With a compelling plot that explores themes of friendship, competition, and the importance of staying true to oneself, Bring It On has become a beloved franchise that spawned multiple sequels and a dedicated fanbase. Whether you’re a cheerleading enthusiast or simply looking for an entertaining and feel-good movie, Bring It On delivers on all fronts.
FAQs
1. When was Bring It On released?
Bring It On was released on August 25, 2000.
2. Who are the main stars of Bring It On?
The main stars of Bring It On are Kirsten Dunst, Eliza Dushku, Jesse Bradford, and Gabrielle Union.
3. Is Bring It On based on a true story?
No, Bring It On is a work of fiction. However, it offers an entertaining and exaggerated look into the world of competitive cheerleading.
4. Does Bring It On have any sequels?
Yes, Bring It On has several sequels, including Bring It On Again, Bring It On: All or Nothing, Bring It On: In It to Win It, and Bring It On: Fight to the Finish.
5. Who directed Bring It On?
Bring It On was directed by Peyton Reed.
6. What is the runtime of Bring It On?
The runtime of Bring It On is approximately 1 hour and 38 minutes.
7. Did Bring It On receive any awards?
Bring It On received several nominations and awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Eliza Dushku at the MTV Movie Awards.
8. What is the premise of Bring It On?
Bring It On follows the story of two rival cheerleading squads as they compete for the national championship title.
9. Is Bring It On suitable for all age groups?
Bring It On is generally suitable for teenagers and adults due to its mature themes and some mild language.
10. Where can I watch Bring It On?
Bring It On is available for streaming on various platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu. It is also available for rental or purchase on DVD and Blu-ray.
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