A modern-day crowd-pleasing classic that surprisingly spawned a lucrative franchise, “Pitch Perfect” combines the best parts of coming-of-age college movies (like crisp writing, effective characters and a charming cast with onscreen chemistry) with the conventions of competitive-sports teen classics like “Bring It On.” Anna Kendrick is perfectly cast in the lead, while the movie has her surrounded with top-notch supporting talent, in particular Elizabeth Banks and Rebel Wilson, in a star-making turn as Fat Amy. There’s plenty to enjoy here from beginning to end, with energy and good cheer to spread around.
Rating: ★★★★ (out of 5)
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