Confessions of a Shopaholic

Isla Fisher stars in Confessions of a Shopaholic.

2 Stars
Rating: PG
Stars: Isla Fisher, Hugh Dancy, Joan Cusack, John Goodman, Krysten Ritter

What's the story?
Confessions of a Shopaholic is the story of a girl who is in denial about her extravagant spending. Although there are monthly reminders in the form of credit card bills and debt collectors, Rebecca Bloomwood (Fisher) cannot seem to overcome her shopping addiction. Ironically, she unintentionally lands a job with a serious financial magazine, and as obstacles fall in her way, she realizes that she must reassess her true ambitions in life.

Why see it?
Fans of the bestselling series by Sophie Kinsella are sure to enjoy seeing Rebecca's outlandish schemes played out on the big screen. There are many moments that cause the audience to break out into hysterical laughter, which is enough to save this film from being a total disaster. Rebecca's male superior and editor, Luke Brandon (Dancy), is absolutely charming and another reason why this movie is worth seeing.

Problems?
This movie maxes out scenes as much as it does Rebecca's credit cards. It drags on and seems to reach the climax too early in the film. Also, Rebecca's character is not well developed. On the one hand, she is portrayed as an intelligent writer, but her character is also made to appear completely out of place in the office. These two aspects collide, making her personality and character inconsistent and, ultimately, not very likeable. I would have much rather enjoyed the film if Rebecca was portrayed as a well-informed writer in a bad situation rather than just a dim-witted fool.

All in all:
Confessions of a Shopaholic is like a long and meaningless trip to the mall - but at least it's full of Gucci and Prada.