Miss Congeniality - Sandra shines

Sandra Bullock has been known to be a little ‘typecast’ sometimes – always playing the ‘loveable, but kooky’ leading lady.  Okay, so despite a few attempts to move away from that image, ‘loveable and kooky’ is what she does best.  And she does it very well here.

In ‘Miss Congeniality’ she plays an FBI agent who has to go undercover in the Miss America beauty contest in order to protect its participants from someone threatening the event.  I recently watched the X-files – another show centring on FBI agents.  I couldn’t help but laugh at the difference the ‘Bureau’ is portrayed in both shows.  In the X-files they’re all serious and professional, in ‘Miss Congeniality’ they kind of behave like frat boys at a college party.

But then that’s what Miss Congeniality is.  It’s not meant to be taken seriously, nor does it ever try.  It’s one of those perfect films that you can simply sit down and relax with.  You won’t need much brainpower to appreciate it.  Sandra Bullock is as lovable and endearing as she always is and you won’t care that the whole concept is kind of silly.  How anyone fails to notice that Sandra Bullock isn’t attractive, just because she wears glasses and doesn’t brush her hair is beyond me!

Although Bullock naturally carries the show as she’s transformed from ‘tom-boy FBI agent’ to glamorous beauty queen (a process that can apparently be achieved overnight – but, again, never mind, eh?), it’s worth noting that Michael Caine also has a role to play.  He comes close to stealing every scene as the uptight Englishman the FBI have employed to mould her into ‘Miss New Jersey.’

There are no surprises plot-wise.  You’ll probably guess who the bad guys – really – are and there’s the natural romantic sub-plot thrown in, just because.  But, as long as you’re only looking for pure entertainment, you probably won’t care.  This is a great movie to watch with other people.  Sit back, crack open the popcorn, put your brain on hold and enjoy.  Miss Congeniality is a classic in its own, laid back, easy-going league.  No, it'll never be remembered in the same breath as the true cinematic greats, such as the Godfather etc, but then it's not meant to be.  Just remember that while you're watching Sandra stumble into things and trip over on her heels.

8/10 The Force is definitely strong with this one