CROSSROADS

 Brittney Spears’ debut film is a lot more entertaining than Mariah Carreys’ was with “GLITTER”.  That, at first, may not sound like an endorsement, but it is.  While no one could probably expect much of a dramatic range from a pop star, she’s more than competent, and the film, actress, and director seem confident in their aspirations. 

 Perhaps most importantly, there’s nothing for a parent to worry over if its target audience, young girls, see it. 

For a change with Spears, sexuality is left, at least somewhat, to the imagination. The cliché’ filled story introduces the audience to very young friends dreaming about their future as adolescents.  After putting away sentimental things the three share sentiment over, we move ahead in time to find the three are “again” cliche’  characters, who’ve opened the box they had buried their dreams in.  The three are supposed to be extremely different from one another,… a nerd, a priss, and a somewhat troubled(pregnant)girl. 

They decide to take a road trip, and as events unfold, Spears realizes that maybe she’s destined to become a singer.  Most of what occurs becomes syrupy and way too melodramatic for the quality of the script to handle, but it’s never in bad taste, or too silly to enjoy.  And, in spite of some troubling situations, the girls hang out with an attractive guy, whom may be a killer, there’s even a little morality thrown in for good measure in the end. 

PARAMOUNT has provided the correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio, with 16:9 enhancement.

The image is generally sharp, with bold colors and some well conceived shots, raising the film above standard teen-fare, at least in terms of its visual scope.  Contrast is solid, with deep blacks and grays, even in darker scenes.  
 

The Dolby Digital 5.1 mix offers a fair share of surround moments, but effects tend to be restrained, with rear speakers being used mostly during musical interludes.  The dialogue is always intelligible.

 A commentary with the film’s director, producer and writer is provided.  While most of their comments seem little more than fanfare for Spears, there is some insight offered into the film’s production as well.

”BREAK-THROUGH BRITNEY” offers Ms Spears in a “pop up” video style to expound on certain scenes of the film.  

The original trailer and international trailer are included. Thankfully, PARAMOUNT has kept their original Dolby Digital 5.1 mix intact. 

 “BRITNEY’S DVD INTRO” features Britney giving a quick hello for the film.

 “FORTY DAYS WITH BRITNEY” is a brief featurette, offering some behind-the-scenes footage, as well as interviews, and info on the plot.

 “FIRST IN LINE:INSIDE THE CROSSROADS PREMIERE” features one of the films’ stars, Zoe Saldana, filmed en-route to the premiere along with family and friends. Young teen fans will enjoy this.

“TARYN’S T-SHIRTS” is a featurette demonstrating how fans can make their own outfites featured in the film. 

 “MUSIC VIDEOS”  offers “OVERPROTECTED” as well as “I’M NOT A GIRL, NOT YET A WOMAN”.

”SING-ALONG” offers “sing-along” videos for the music videos.

 “EDIT  YOUR OWN MUSIC VIDEO” allows a simple, but creative way for youngsters to put together three different clips to one of the music videos.