Feeling the Heat

By: Gracie Kessenich

As women, we’re inclined to choose or pick out things that are inherently feminine. Many of us are drawn mostly to female friends and female interests. Does this include movies? For some yes, for some no. (For me, no.) There are a few aptly titled “chick flicks.” But when women aren’t in the mood for a movie from that genre we tend to lean toward other comedies or action.

Have you ever noticed that most of these other types of movies are male driven? Some of the most famous comedians are men. With the exception of the film, “Bridesmaids,” can you think of a comedy that didn’t have a male lead?

Right now, though, there’s a hot new crossover movie, called The Heat, starring Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy. It isn’t a chick flick. It’s a comedy for every gender. Rated R solely for drug references and some cursing, “The Heat” gives levity to a historically sensitive subject: Women in male-dominated fields.

Sandra Bullock, reminiscent of her Miss Congeniality alter-ego, plays OCD-prone, snarky, always-playing-by-the-rules-much-to-the-annoyance-of-her-ALL-male-co-workers, FBI agent Sarah Ashburn.  Co-star, Melissa McCarthy, plays the also snarky, and hot-tempered, Boston cop Shannon Mullins. Though they don’t get along with others, they work well with each other; albeit after many hilarious head-butting moments and hundreds of humorous quips at the other’s expense. The chemistry between these hilarious off-screen mom stars is palpably real.

In 90 minutes this movie breaks down both film-business and gender barriers. However, extinguish your burning bras ladies! You’ll have to go looking for these themes. The film doesn’t throw the whole “women versus the world” idea out in the open. It’s subtle which makes the film all the more appealing.

You won’t leave with a chip on your shoulder. You’ll leave with a smile on your face and hysterical one-liners that you’ll be repeating for months.

Even more appealing, girlfriends aren’t required to see this girl-approved movie. Go with your husband or boyfriend (or in my case, fiancé.) They’ll get just as much out of it as you. This hilarious, grade-A movie will have you rolling in your chair and excited for the next Sandra/Melissa film.

See more, read more, do more on Eve! Drowning in grammar rules? Check with Graceful Grace first, she'll throw you a raft!