Comedy proves to be a good deal

By Katherine Johnson

Many dream of spending as much money as they want whenever they desire or buying things on a complete whim. Becky Bloomwood in Confessions of a Shopaholic can do both.

The movie is originally based off of the novel with the same title, written by Sophie Kinsella. It focuses on Becky, played by Isla Fisher (Wedding Crashers), who tries to manage her money as well as her addiction to shopping, while living in one of the fashion capitals of the world, New York City.

As the movie continues, Becky struggles with financial difficulties that come from her shopping habits. After accidentally scoring a job at a financial magazine, Becky finds that her love for fashion translates into a promising writing career. 

At the office she meets her love interest, Luke Brandon, played by Hugh Dancy (Ella Enchanted and Blood and Chocolate). Without realizing that he is her boss, Becky begs him to lend her money so that she can buy a green scarf, which she claims is for her dying aunt.

However, as the movie progresses, Becky faces some trials and tribulations, including another woman trying to attract Luke’s attention, a persistent banker who wants to get back the money she has overdrawn from the bank and a roommate who constantly tells her to de-clutter and simplify her life.

Eventually, the film gets to the point where Becky’s life begins spiraling downward and she is faced with some very serious consequences.

In a final moment of clarity, Becky comes to a realization and does something that might not be expected, but makes everything work out in the end. Besides, this is a chick flick, so the chances of it ending happily ever after are extremely high.

Even though the movie is based on the book, there are several differences that, depending on how a person looks at it, will change the perception of the movie and book as a pair. 

For example, in the book the story takes place in London, while the movie is based in New York City. 

This changes some events from the book to the movie, and some of the stores mentioned had to be changed to fit into American society. 

The change in locale could be problematic if a sequel is made for the movie, because the next book is about Becky’s decision to move to New York City, and whether she can handle the change. 

Overall the movie is a very good example of what a chick flick should be, with some romance, some drama and, of course, a leading lady who is completely hysterical. 

It is definitely a movie that is worth seeing for all those who like comedies or chick flicks.

Confessions of a Shopholic will play tonight at 7:30 in the BLC Theater.