Brief Summary
In this episode of Adam and the Show Gaze Movical Podcast, the hosts discuss "The Cheetah Girls," a 2003 Disney Channel Original Movie. They explore the movie's cultural impact, its themes of friendship and individuality, and its place within the broader context of Disney Channel Original Movies. The hosts share personal anecdotes, discuss the actors and music, and provide a detailed analysis of the film's plot and characters.
- RJ watched The Cheetah Girls for the first time and shares his fresh perspective.
- Molly rewatched the movie and found a new appreciation for its songs and themes.
- The hosts discuss the movie's historical context, including its representation of diversity and its connection to the pop music scene of the early 2000s.
Intro and Birthdays
The podcast begins with a humorous intro song and banter. RJ's birthday is celebrated, and the hosts discuss their ages and how their families perceive them. They touch on the topic of aging and the shock of seeing older siblings reach new decades. RJ mentions his upcoming play reading and potential birthday plans.
Listener Emails and Suggestions
The hosts read and respond to listener emails. Robert suggests they review "Funny Face," praising its Gershwin songs, fashion, and the performances of Audrey Hepburn, Fred Astaire, and Kay Thompson. Lucas follows up on a previous email, expressing his dislike for Dianne in a musical and recommending "The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" as a cinemusical, highlighting Rachel Zegler's musical performances. He also suggests covering "From Justin to Kelly" for RJ's birthday.
RJ's Cheetah Girls Revelation
RJ reveals he had never seen "The Cheetah Girls" until recently, which shocks the other hosts. He explains his limited access to Disney Channel growing up and his familiarity with the movie's song "Cinderella." The hosts discuss their experiences with Disney Channel Original Movies (DCOMs) and their transition to more mature television shows.
Cheetah Girls Plot Summary and Background
RJ provides a one-minute summary of "The Cheetah Girls" plot. The hosts discuss the book series the movie is based on, the changes made for the film adaptation, and the backgrounds of the lead actresses, including their involvement in the girl group 3LW. They also mention Whitney Houston's role as a producer and the director Oz Scott's earlier work.
Key Williams' "Spectacular" and Cheetah Girls Lore
The hosts discuss Key Williams' (Aqua) song "Spectacular" and its music video, which sparked controversy. They also touch on the behind-the-scenes drama of The Cheetah Girls, including Raven-Symoné's departure from the franchise and the other actresses' careers. Sandra Caldwell, who played Drinka Champagne, is revealed to be a trans woman, and her career is discussed.
Initial Reactions to The Cheetah Girls
RJ shares his positive first impressions of "The Cheetah Girls," praising the performances and pacing. Molly discusses her mixed feelings about the movie, noting its marketing and the beginning of internalized misogyny. They both agree that it is one of the better-produced DCOMs, but still feels like a fantasy made for children.
Deeper Dive into Characters and Plot
Molly expresses that the songs are fun and good. The hosts analyze the characters, particularly Galleria and her relationship with her mom. They discuss the foster care storyline and its handling in the movie versus the books. The hosts debate whether Galleria or her friends are in the wrong.
Music Analysis and the Global Get Down
The hosts discuss the songs in the movie, starting with "Together We Can." They analyze the lyrics and vocal performances. They also discuss the "Global Get Down" song and its similarities to another song. The hosts critique the masks in the "Global Get Down" performance and the song's overall corniness.
Girl Power and the Climax
The hosts discuss the song "Girl Power" and its lyrical content. They analyze the movie's climax, where Toto falls into a construction site hole, and the Cheetah Girls reunite to sing and save him. They debate whether the Cheetah Girls should have won the talent show.
Magnet Schools and Random Plot Points
The hosts discuss the talent show and whether it is a big deal. They also touch on random plot points, such as Chanel's little brother being the Cheetah Girls' manager. They discuss the school in the movie and how it compares to the book series.
Fashion and Mom's Opposition
The hosts discuss the fashion in the movie and Galleria's mom's opposition to her pursuing music. They analyze the characters of Galleria's and Chanel's moms. The hosts debate whether credit cards were swiped or carbon copies were still used in 2003.
Critic Reviews and Letterboxd Reviews
The hosts read and react to critic reviews from 2003, as well as Letterboxd reviews of the movie. They discuss the dog plot line and its significance.
MVPs and Closer
The hosts name their MVPs for the movie: Adrian Bailon and Drinka Champagne. For the closer, the hosts imagine what their girl group would be named and what animal they would be if they were in the "Global Get Down" performance.
