Confessions of a Shopaholic features Isla Fisher as a, well, “shopaholic”. Her character, Rebecca Bloomwood, tells you very early in the movie “stores treat me better than boyfriends” (or something to that effect). Through a weird series of events, Rebecca lands a job as a writer for a financial magazine. She’d really prefer to write for a fashion mag, more in line with her obsession for shopping. She shops not at Filene’s Basement (obscure reference that some East coast people might get) but, rather at the big names like Prada and Gucci. Her credit card debt keeps growing, and some unfunny events occur like her visits to “Shopaholics Anonymous” and continual harassments from the nerdy credit card collection guy.
This movie borrows from Working Girl (and by the way, it too features the wonderful Joan Cusack, here playing Rebecca’s mother), Legally Blonde, and even The Devil Wears Prada, but isn’t nearly as good as any of those. Hugh Dancy‘s presence as her boss/love interest fails to elevate the movie to any great extent. This is a light comedy with a little romantic aura that is like video snack food. Confessions is kind of like the Doritos of chick flicks. Not really very good, but maybe something you are in the mood to watch anyway. It has some farcical notes, sometimes bordering on slapstick, but just doesn’t make it as “hilarious”, as the box claims.
I should mention, though, the supporting cast: In addition to Cusack, there’s John Goodman, John Lithgow, Kristen Scott Thomas, and even Lynn Redgrave. There are definitely some worthwhile moments, but Confessions of a Shopaholic doesn’t hold together as a “must see”. Director P.J. Hogan gave us better stuff with Muriel’s Wedding and My Best Friend’s Wedding. Hopefully, and most probably, the talented Isla Fisher will get better material in her future roles. – [DVD]
Comedy/Romance
Rated PG
DVD Release Date: 6/23/09
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