'Dumplin' - A Movie Review

It’s up to you to decide who you are. Life may not go the way you want it to. But in order to figure out who you are, you have to do it on purpose.

Dumplin’ is a made for Netflix film directed by Anne Fletcher. The story explores the life of a plus-sized teenager whose mother is all about beauty pageants. In the recent passing of her aunt, Willowdean takes a stand to rebel against the pageant and show audiences that all women deserve to be acknowledged for women of size or unique personality.

Little did I know that it was a book written by Julie Murphy. Dumplin’ is a very original story that immediately captures you. The main theme of Dumplin’ is its strong motivations for women. History has changed regarding our overall opinions about women’s placement. Women are free to be who they are. We have to trust ourselves and our goals for the journey ahead.

Danielle Macdonald stars as Willowdean, or Dumplin’ as her mother calls her. MacDonald does a phenomenal job in her role as Willowdean. You may have recently seen Macdonald as Olympia in Bird Box, another recently popular Netflix film.

In contrast from Olympia, Willowdean is rebellious. The protagonist is not always someone who we can look up to. In fact, it’s better. Audiences learn from their mistakes.

Jennifer Aniston was definitely the best choice for Willowdean’s mother, Rosie. Aniston has played an assortment of characters throughout her film career. Since Willowdean and her mother have differing personalities, it's tough to note who is at fault exactly. She too learns a powerful message from her daughter.

Dumplin’ has an assortment of different subplots. And that’s what makes this film unique. Normally, the story focuses on one character. Movies need to take a breather from the action to give the supporting characters their time to shine, something that can be downright ignored.

Odeya Rush, Maddie Baillio, and Bex Taylor-Klause are along for the ride. Viewers also have a chance to follow their shoes and not just Willowdean. Appearing right out from her role as Tracey Turnblad from the 2016 Hairspray Live, Baillio once again was a joy to watch onscreen. This band of outcasts had several memorable moments, interactions, and lines.

Watching this film hit me on a personal level. In the recent passing of Willowdean’s aunt, her close relationship reminded me of my own relationship I had with my aunt who had passed on about five years ago. Death is one of the hardest, toughest aspects of life. It takes a while to be you again. That’s why Willowdean is so frustrated. Relationships are impactful.

Dolly Parton fans are sure to enjoy Dumplin’. Her songs and even Dolly Parton drag queen impersonators are a big hit in the movie. Don’t shy away from your passions.

No matter what size, how unique you are, and what you have gone through in life, no woman should be judged for entering a beauty pageant. It’s not about being beautiful. It’s more about being confident. The same message goes for love. Everyone deserves love. Don’t judge your life as a rom-com.

I recommend Dumplin’. It is a thought-provoking story, and even therapeutic, too. Never once does it slow down or feel too forced. It delivers a handful of comedy and hits you in the heart where you need it. I really appreciate all the hard work that went into Dumplin’ to create an impactful story. Girl power at its best.

It’s up to you to decide who you are. Be happy with who you are. We all have our own story. Which is why beauty pageants should be open to women of all sizes, race, and backgrounds.

Did you enjoy the review? Writing movie reviews has been a passion of mine since I was young. Please contribute below. I always love going on adventures to movies! More movie reviews are to come in the future!