The film "Cadet Kelly" is one of those movies you tend to forget, unless you view it at least a second time. However, each time you view it, its value becomes more obvious.
The movie has four things going for it. First, Hilary Duff does an outstanding job in the character of Kelly. She is in nearly every scene, and her delivery of lines and expressions is priceless. It's difficult to believe she was only 14, because she has the natural ability to behave rather than to act in a role.
Second, the rest of the cast. Each one contributes to the overall effect led by Christy Romano as the mean Captain Stone. And Kelly hugs or is hugged by each character except the "perfect" Brad Rigby somewhere during the course of the film. How can those natural signs of affection do anything but make viewers love the character of Kelly?
Third, the script and story line. What undoubtedly began as a typical Disney original film for tweens, turned into a flick for the entire family. Many of the lines are over the heads of kids. "accessories are a girl's best friend," "wear 'em if you've got it," and other gags give adults a chance to laugh. The editing is super and camera angles are carefully chosen, although for some reason, the camera seems unsteady at times.
Fourth, the soundtrack, including music and sound effects, is one of the best I've observed. Those responsible should be commented for a superior presentation. Not only is the military mood and tone realistic, it really makes this movie come alive. I watched the rough editing version, and without the superb sound effects and music, this film would have been just another dismal kiddie effort. To fully appreciate the soundtrack, you must close your eyes and picture what is going on.
To me the scene where Kelly cuts Jennifer off from Brad is indicative of all of the above qualities and one of the funniest 20 seconds in the movie.
Perhaps the most poignant scene is the 15 seconds when Kelly has her revelation upon seeing her drill team uniform and realizing she is still an individual, although a part of something largest than herself.
There are so many subtle qualities that you could spend hours discussing the superiority of "Cadet Kelly."
For all of inaccurate military "stuff," this is still one heck of a great movie.
The movie has four things going for it. First, Hilary Duff does an outstanding job in the character of Kelly. She is in nearly every scene, and her delivery of lines and expressions is priceless. It's difficult to believe she was only 14, because she has the natural ability to behave rather than to act in a role.
Second, the rest of the cast. Each one contributes to the overall effect led by Christy Romano as the mean Captain Stone. And Kelly hugs or is hugged by each character except the "perfect" Brad Rigby somewhere during the course of the film. How can those natural signs of affection do anything but make viewers love the character of Kelly?
Third, the script and story line. What undoubtedly began as a typical Disney original film for tweens, turned into a flick for the entire family. Many of the lines are over the heads of kids. "accessories are a girl's best friend," "wear 'em if you've got it," and other gags give adults a chance to laugh. The editing is super and camera angles are carefully chosen, although for some reason, the camera seems unsteady at times.
Fourth, the soundtrack, including music and sound effects, is one of the best I've observed. Those responsible should be commented for a superior presentation. Not only is the military mood and tone realistic, it really makes this movie come alive. I watched the rough editing version, and without the superb sound effects and music, this film would have been just another dismal kiddie effort. To fully appreciate the soundtrack, you must close your eyes and picture what is going on.
To me the scene where Kelly cuts Jennifer off from Brad is indicative of all of the above qualities and one of the funniest 20 seconds in the movie.
Perhaps the most poignant scene is the 15 seconds when Kelly has her revelation upon seeing her drill team uniform and realizing she is still an individual, although a part of something largest than herself.
There are so many subtle qualities that you could spend hours discussing the superiority of "Cadet Kelly."
For all of inaccurate military "stuff," this is still one heck of a great movie.