Director: Michael Lembeck
Year: 2011
Rated PG (TV)
Rating: * * * 1/2 Stars
Cast: Austin Butler, Yin Chang, Tom Irwin
Arriving two years before Sofia Coppola's 2013 version, The Bling Ring is an above average, absorbing TV movie. As something that chronicles a bunch of Hollywood brats stealing possessions from celebrity houses, "Ring" is swiftly paced, well acted (especially by its lead, Austin Butler), and dutifully told in terms of the old adage being, "crime doesn't pay." Now it doesn't quite end as compelling as it should. Why? Because you don't ultimately find out the outcomes of most of the characters (unless you know the true story beforehand). Plus, there is an overused device in which certain cast members reflect back on the scandalous events that took place (this is done documentary style like 2006's Alpha Dog).
Regardless, the entertainment value in this 2011 Lifetime flick is
through the roof. And it's clever in the way it uses today's technology
(social media in the form of Facebook) to lead to the demise of the
teenage thieves that are clearly in denial.
Of note: Look for Jennifer Grey (yes the girl from Dirty Dancing) in a
surprisingly strong role playing the "ring" leader's mother. Also, you
have well known TV director Michael Lembeck behind the camera. His
style is effective without being too flashy.
Written by Jesse Burleson
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