The Big Picture 1. ‘Bring It On’ and ‘Donnie Darko’ | Mission Accomplished
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Aug 12, 2025 Dive into a lively discussion about how two iconic high school films—one brimming with cheer, the other steeped in existential dread—epitomize America's shift from optimism to anxiety in the early 2000s. Explore the vibrant cheerleading culture in 'Bring It On' and the dark, haunting themes of 'Donnie Darko'. Uncover the cultural significance of these films, the evolving societal values they represent, and the fascinating production journey behind 'Donnie Darko'. It's a captivating look at cinema's reflection of a nation in flux.
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Asking Bush About His Favorite Films
- Brian Raftery emailed George W. Bush asking his favorite movies instead of policy questions.
- Bush listed Austin Powers, revealing a goofy, unserious tone that matched 2000's low-stakes mood.
Two Teen Films Mark A Rapid Cultural Shift
- Brian Raftery pairs Bring It On and Donnie Darko as snapshots of two consecutive eras.
- They show how American movie tastes moved from cocky optimism to anxious dread in a year.
Cheerleading Script Rejected Repeatedly
- Jessica Benninger pitched her cheerleading script roughly 30 times before anyone bought it.
- An exec dismissively told her, 'Girls don't go to movies,' which she found idiotic.