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Stuck in the Suburbs
By Stefan Pape,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Clichéd Disney teen comedy explores downsides to fame.
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Stuck in the Suburbs
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What's the Story?
STUCK IN THE SUBURBS tells the story of teenager Brittany (Danielle Panabaker) who dreams of one day meeting her idol, the pop star Jordan Cahill (Taran Killam). When Jordan comes to Brittany's suburban hometown to film his new music video -- together with her new friend at school, Natasha (Brenda Song) -- she tries to get a glimpse of her hero. But after Brittany is knocked off her feet by Jordan's entourage, she discovers that in the melee, her phone was accidentally switched with Jordan's.
Is It Any Good?
It may have characters who feel imprisoned in their tranquil, unexciting suburban life, yet what's more concerning is how this movie has managed to remain so stuck in time. It's a severely dated teen comedy, and that's not just a comment on the remarkable fashion styles from the time this movie was set. The narrative feels outdated and will struggle to appeal to the new generation of young audience members -- both technology and the means to which teens and tweens interact with their heroes has changed immeasurably since the movie's release in 2004. It's hard to be too critical however, as it knew its audience at the time, and played to them in an affectionate and charming manner.
Stuck in the Suburbs also deserves some praise for its positive messages around consumerism and materialism. Despite his fame and success, Jordan is shown to be down to earth and in touch with his roots, despite the extravagance and excess surrounding him. Yet the clichéd, corny montage sequences are laughable, and the dialogue really rather absurd. Ultimately, the movie hasn't any ideas above its station, it's just an unassuming comedy that can wile away the time. Though consider this more of a nostalgia trip for adults, rather than a fresh new experience for kids.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how fame is portrayed in Stuck in the Suburbs. How is Jordan's life different to what his record company presents it as being? What are the pros and cons to being famous? Would you like to be famous?
Brittany and Natasha obsess over a pop star. Who do you look up to and see as being an idol? What is it you admire about them? What is the difference between obsession and admiration?
Talk to your kids about the importance of friendship. Who are your best friends, and what qualities do you admire and appreciate most about them?
The movie shows that we don't need money and success to be happy. Do you agree with this? What free activities do you enjoy doing?
The characters dream of moving out of their suburban neighborhood to move to a city. Where would you like to live or study when you're older? Are you nervous or excited about that chapter in your life?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: July 16, 2004
- Cast: Danielle Panabaker , Brenda Song , Amanda Shaw
- Director: Savage Steve Holland
- Inclusion Information: Female actors, Asian actors
- Studio: Disney Channel Original Movies
- Genre: Comedy
- Topics: Friendship , Middle School , Music and Sing-Along
- Run time: 76 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 18, 2023
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