Bring It On 4K Ultra HD Review

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Introduction: More Than Just Rah-Rah

Released in August 2000, Peyton Reed’s directorial debut, Bring It On, exploded onto the scene as a deceptively smart teen comedy masquerading as a fluffy cheerleading flick. Written by Jessica Bendinger, the film stars Kirsten Dunst as the perky Torrance Shipman, thrust into leadership of the reigning national champion Rancho Carne Toros, alongside newcomers Eliza Dushku as the skeptical gymnast Missy and Jesse Bradford as her brother Cliff. Gabrielle Union shines as Isis, the fierce captain of the rival East Compton Clovers. While ostensibly about the road to a national cheerleading competition, the film cleverly tackles themes of cultural appropriation, authenticity, and finding your own voice, all wrapped in high-energy routines and sharp humor. It became an instant box office hit and has since cemented its status as a beloved cult classic.

Plot & Themes: Stolen Routines and Earned Respect

The Toros’ quest for a sixth straight national title hits a snag when new member Missy recognizes their signature routines as stolen from the underfunded, predominantly Black East Compton Clovers, led by the formidable Isis (Union). Torrance (Dunst) faces a moral and logistical crisis: continue with the plagiarized material or start from scratch. The plot navigates Torrance’s personal growth amid this scandal, her crumbling relationship with college boyfriend Aaron, a budding romance with Cliff (Bradford), and the intense rivalry with the Clovers. Beyond the pom-poms, the film delivers surprisingly pointed commentary. It exposes the exploitation inherent in cultural theft while celebrating the distinct styles and hard work of both squads. The resolution, where the Clovers rightfully win the national title and the Toros earn a hard-fought second place, underscores themes of integrity and mutual respect triumphing over hollow victory. Torrance’s journey from privileged captain focused solely on winning to a leader valuing originality and fairness forms the film’s satisfying core.

Cast & Characters: Anchored by Dunst, Electrified by Union

Kirsten Dunst proves her comedic chops and relatability as Torrance, perfectly capturing the character’s initial naiveté, subsequent determination, and ultimate humility. Her performance anchors the film. Eliza Dushku brings a welcome edge and grounded skepticism as Missy. Jesse Bradford is charming as the alternative love interest Cliff, offering a refreshing contrast to Torrance’s superficial ex. However, Gabrielle Union is a revelation as Isis. Her portrayal radiates confidence, intelligence, and justified anger, making the Clovers instantly compelling and ensuring their victory feels genuinely earned. The supporting cast, including Clare Kramer and Nicole Bilderback as the catty Toros duo and Nathan West and Huntley Ritter as the scene-stealing male cheerleaders (notably including an openly gay character treated with respect), adds significant flavor and humor, fleshing out the high school dynamics effectively.

Cultural Context & Production: From Rejection to Cheer Camp

Screenwriter Jessica Bendinger drew inspiration from her love of hip-hop and observations of predominantly white cheer squads emulating moves seen on ESPN competitions. Her pitch, initially rejected 28 times, cleverly framed the concept as “Clueless meets Strictly Ballroom.” Bendinger’s background covering hip-hop for Spin magazine informed the film’s exploration of cultural appropriation – the central conflict isn’t just about winning, but about who truly owns the creativity and effort behind the routines. To ensure authenticity and minimize stunt doubles, director Peyton Reed put the entire cast through a rigorous four-week cheerleading boot camp prior to filming. Casting choices were pivotal; Union collaborated closely with Reed to define Isis’s powerful presence, while Dunst (initially uninterested) ultimately embraced the role that showcased her range. Filming took place across San Diego County, utilizing local high school squads as extras.

Cheers and Jeers, But Mostly Cheers

Initial reviews were generally positive, though mixed. Critics praised the film’s high energy, witty script (particularly from first-timer Bendinger), and Kirsten Dunst’s winning performance. Many highlighted Gabrielle Union’s standout turn and the film’s willingness to engage with racial and economic disparities, even within its comedic framework. Roger Ebert represented a dissenting voice, finding the film tonally inconsistent in its attempts to avoid an R-rating. Some found the plot predictable or the ultimate message slightly muddled. However, the consensus leaned towards fun and surprisingly smart. Critics like A.O. Scott (The New York Times) noted its “occasional snarl of genuine satire,” while Kevin Thomas (LA Times) appreciated its subversive values beyond just winning.

The Video

Bring It On gets a new 4K transfer from the original 35mm negative approved by director Peyton Reed. It’s presented in a 1.85:1 HEVC 2160p (4K UHD) Dolby Vision encodement on the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray disc. The movie has never looked better than it does here with a gorgeous, thin, crisp, and natural layer of grain and beautiful colors that really pop thanks to the Dolby Vision. The reds and greens in particular really stand out and the sunny daylight scenes have sublime warmth and verdant foliage and green fields.

The Audio

The lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio mix starts off right with a thumping low end in the cheerleading during Torrance’s dream sequence and it stays solid throughout with excellent clarity and balance. The soundtrack gives punchy dynamics to the songs and intelligibility to the dialogue.

The Supplements

This is where this release is a disappointment, providing no more than archival featurettes all in standard definition and one audio commentary from the director.

Bonus Features:

• Commentary with Director Peyton Reed

Blu-ray Only:

• Spotlight on Location: The Making of Bring it On (SD; 00:14:18)
• Wardrobe and Makeup Tests (SD; 00:00:42)
• Deleted Scenes (SD; 00:12:22)
• Extended Scenes (SD; 00:02:07)
• Theatrical Trailer (SD; 00:02:14)

The Final Assessment

Bring It On endures because it delivers exactly what it promises – energetic fun, quotable lines, and great performances – while packing more substance than its cheerleading premise suggests. It balances satire and heart, tackles relevant issues with a light touch, and features a rivalry where both sides earn the audience’s respect. Over two decades later, its spirit remains infectious, proving it’s much more than just another teen movie – it’s a legitimately clever and enduring comedy classic. Spirit fingers definitely way up. This new 4K release from the Shout Select imprint offers fantastic video and audio, and is highly recommended for anyone looking for a fun distraction.

Bring It On is out on 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray June 24, 2025 from Shout! Factory

Details

• Rating Certificate: PG-13 (for sex-related material and language)
• Studios & Distributors: Beacon Communications | Beacon Pictures | Wonderworks Films | Shout Select
• Director: Peyton Reed
• Written By: Jessica Bendinger
• Run Time: 99 Mins.
• Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1
• Video Format: HEVC 2160p (4K UHD)
• HDR Format: Dolby Vision (HDR10 Compatible)
• HDR10 Metadata:
  • MaxLL: 971 nits
  • MaxFALL: 544 nits
• Primary Audio: English DTS-HD MA 5.1
• Secondary Audio: English DTS-HD MA 2.0 Stereo
• Subtitles: English SDH
• Street Date: 24 June 2025