The Bling Ring

We've all felt that way at some point in our lives, haven't we? That aching desire to become famous and recognized. Some people will do anything to get in the spotlight, even if it involves breaking the law.

That is precisely what the protagonists of Sofia Coppola's The Bling Ring do. But what exactly do they do? Well, if you're aware of the real "Bling Ring" case from a few years ago, then you'll know of the absolutely audacious robberies they committed. (And I'm not exaggerating when I say "audacious".)

I suppose one driving motive behind the robberies was to be "in" with the Los Angeles lifestyle. And what better way to prove you're "in" that by having a wardrobe that's a who's who of top notch fashion? But being an unemployed middle-class teenager usually means you don't have the money to afford such luxuries, so apparently robbing celebrities is the way to go.

As this film has teenagers, suffice to say there'll be actual teenagers in those roles. (Or at least those in their early twenties.) Of the quintet, there were two that impressed me. The first was Emma Watson, who, between The Perks of Being a Wallflower and this, has come a long way since her days at Hogwarts. And the other is Israel Broussand, playing the not quite willing participant of the robberies. I can sense he'll be around for some time.

All in all, The Bling Ring isn't anything phenomenal or groundbreaking but man, is it wild. Lost in Translation still ranks as my favorite of Coppola's but who knows? It might change on a re-watch or two.

My Rating: ****