Movie Musings: Dumplin'

In September 2015, author Julie Murphy released her second Young Adult novel, Dumplin'. I have to share her bio with you, because it's just too good:

"Julie Murphy is a potty-mouthed Southern belle who was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, but found her home in Fort Worth, Texas. She’s never seen Star Wars, but has yet to meet a made for TV movie she didn’t love. When she’s not writing, Julie can be found cruising Costco for free samples, watching Sister Act 2, stalking drag queens on instagram, obsessing over the logistics of Mars One, and forever searching for the perfect slice of cheese pizza. She lives with her bearded husband, two vicious cats, and one pomeranian that can pass as a bear cub."

This made me laugh out loud. She's obviously fun in real life. 

Dumplin' tells the story of Willowdean Dickson, a high school student who decides to enter the local beauty pageant, run by her mother, a former pageant queen. The problem? Willowdean knows her plus-size body is not what people are used to seeing up on that stage. 

The sub plot here is that Willowdean is also mourning the recent loss of her aunt, who she shared everything with - including a similar size and shape, and a deep love for Dolly Parton. 

When Jennifer Aniston signed on to executive produce and bring the book to the big screen, the first call her team made was to Dolly Parton (fun fact: Aniston has a dog named Dolly). They wanted to know if Dolly would allow some of her music to be used in the film, and if she might be open to writing some new tunes as well. Dolly said yes, and her famous voice can be heard throughout the film (though she never appears on screen). 

Jennifer Aniston not only served as executive producer, but she plays the role of Willowdean's mother, Rosie. Aniston completely transforms in this part, walking with a giant stick up her butt, treating pageant rules like religion, and brushing off any wild ideas her daughter has about breaking the mold. 

Dumplin

There is one scene were Willowdean drives Rosie to a pageant event, and Rosie is laying down across the entire back seat of the car so she doesn't wrinkle her dress. When they arrive, she shimmies her entire body forward, parallel to the ground, and waits to stand up until the very last minute, to ensure she looks as perfectly thin and coiffed as possible. 

Willowdean, nicknamed Dumplin' by her mother, is played by Danielle Macdonald. I didn't read the book, but many people who have told me that Macdonald doesn't have the spirit or vibe they were picturing while reading. 

I liked her in the part, and was particularly invested in her budding romance with Bo, her co-worker at a local burger joint. Bo is played by Luke Benward, who was Melissa McCarthy's collegiate love interest in Life of the Party. Those who read the book told me much of Bo's story was cut from the film, which is a shame, because their scenes together were my favorite. 

Dumplin

The relationship that gets a major focus (besides Willowdean and her mother) is the one between Willowdean and her best friend Ellen. Ellen is played by Odeya Rush, who looked strangely familiar. After the movie was over, we looked her up and she played Jenna, the popular girl in Lady Bird. Ellen enters the beauty pageant in solidarity, and helps Willowdean pull off a major feat during the swim suit competition. 

For me, the break out star of the film is Maddie Baillio, who plays Millie Michalchuk, another plus-size pageant contestant. Watching her reminded me of watching Rebel Wilson in the first Pitch Perfect movie. You will be seeing more of this gal. Jennifer Aniston's real-life best friend, Kathy Najimy, gets a cameo in the film as Millie's overprotective mother. 

Netflix nabbed the distribution deal for Dumplin', which meant it was released in select theaters and on Netflix at the same time. This was great news for us, as we decided to make an evening of it, cooking up a gluttonous meal and watching from the comfort of my couch. 

Dolly Parton is nominated for Best Original Song at the upcoming Golden Globe Awards for "Girl in the Movies," written just for Dumplin'. Personally, I cannot wait to see what she wears on the red carpet. 

If you are looking for a great movie to watch on the couch over the holiday break or to download for a plane ride, Dumplin' is a delicious escape. 

*Photos courtesy of Paper City Mag and Country Living

Comments

ayanshah's picture

Whenever I have some free time, I visit blogs to get some useful info. Today, I found your blog with the help of Google. Believe me; I found it one of the most informative blog. Onyx scalper reviews

jahanghir khatri's picture

What a sensational blog! This blog is too much amazing in all aspects. Especially, it looks awesome and the content available on it is utmost qualitative. buy youtube Views and likes

ayanshah's picture

I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often. alternatif lipoqq

kousar seo's picture

Took me time to read all the comments, but I really enjoyed the article. It proved to be Very helpful to me and I am sure to all the commenters here! It’s always nice when you can not only be informed, but also entertained! slotxo

kousar seo's picture

Excellent website! I adore how it is easy on my eyes it is. I am questioning how I might be notified whenever a new post has been made. Looking for more new updates. Have a great day! slot

jahanghir khatri's picture

What a sensational blog! This blog is too much amazing in all aspects. Especially, it looks awesome and the content available on it is utmost qualitative. Poker online uang asli

ayanshah's picture

The Smart Shopper's Treadmill Buying Guide" is one more chunk of information which I hope helps you buy the perfect treadmill that meets your wants, needs, and budget. ลู่วิ่งไฟฟ้า

jahanghir khatri's picture

We have sell some products of different custom boxes.it is very useful and very low price please visits this site thanks and please share this post with your friends. Rossie Schultz

kelvindj's picture

Wow what a Great Information about World Day its incredibly charming instructive post. an obligation of appreciation is all together for the post. en uygun uçak bileti

ayanshah's picture

موقع للبيع والشراء وعرض السلع والمنتجات يغنيك عن زيارة معارض السيارت لبيع سيارة او محلات الكمبيوتر والموبايل والعاب الاطفال والموبايل والتابلت وتستطيع ايضا من خلاله شراء او استئجار عقارات واراضي وشقق للايجار بدون الحاجه الى الاذهاب الى المكاتب العقاريه . وايضا سوق يعرض الحيوانات والطيور للبيع

ayanshah's picture

i am always looking for some free stuffs over the internet. there are also some companies which gives free samples. Best smart locks for vacation home

ayanshah's picture

I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often. ลงประกาศขายบ้านฟรี

kousar seo's picture

Took me time to read all the comments, but I really enjoyed the article. It proved to be Very helpful to me and I am sure to all the commenters here! It’s always nice when you can not only be informed, but also entertained! ریچ بت

ayanshah's picture

Online gaming is one of the fastest-growing industries on the internet. In fact, some analysts had expected gaming to become as big as travel and financial services in terms of revenue if not bigger. However, legislations that were passed in the United States have meant that some of the biggest gaming sites. poker88

jahanghir khatri's picture

I am very much pleased with the contents you have mentioned. I wanted to thank you for this great article. ریچبت

ayanshah's picture

Free URL Shortener & Link Management Platform. Total control over your links in a brand-safe environment. Shorten, Customize, Track & Optimize your Tiny Links.TinyAs feature-rich link management platform is a one-stop URL shortening solution for digital marketers, brands, media agencies, affiliates, online advertisers, developers, freelancers, social media marketers, influencers, e-commerce stores and other professionals to get complete management over all links you share. It’s easy-to-use, 100% FREE cloud-based link management platform with brand-safe and ad-free direct redirects. url shortener

jahanghir khatri's picture

Positive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. سایت ریچ بت

jahanghir khatri's picture

“The first rule of marketing, patient experience and delivering satisfaction is to deeply know and understand the audience. And, in many instances, it is audiences—plural. It’s vital to know exactly how the people you serve perceive you, your staff and the overall experience. The systems that you create to serve these needs must actually connect to and address the people and issues.” medical care journal

jahanghir khatri's picture

I am very much pleased with the contents you have mentioned. I wanted to thank you for this great article. اپلیکیشن سایت گاد بت

jahanghir khatri's picture

Positive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. سایت ریچ 90

kousar seo's picture

Thanks for all your valuable labor on this website. Gloria delights in getting into investigations and it’s obvious why. Most people hear all concerning the dynamic method you present powerful guidelines on this website and as well boost response from other individuals on the subject matter so our own daughter is truly studying a lot of things. Take pleasure in the remaining portion of the new year. You’re the one carrying out a splendid job. Data scientist course in Mumbai

jahanghir khatri's picture

I am very much pleased with the contents you have mentioned. I wanted to thank you for this great article. سایت شرط بندی فوتبال

jahanghir khatri's picture

Positive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. سایت tatalbet

kousar seo's picture

What a fantabulous post this has been. Never seen this kind of useful post. I am grateful to you and expect more number of posts like these. Thank you very much. toddler backpack

jahanghir khatri's picture

I am very much pleased with the contents you have mentioned. I wanted to thank you for this great article. سایت yalmasbet

jahanghir khatri's picture

Positive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. سایت ریچ بت

jahanghir khatri's picture

This is such a great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. I love seeing blog that understand the value of providing a quality resource for free. canada student visa requirements

jahanghir khatri's picture

I am very much pleased with the contents you have mentioned. I wanted to thank you for this great article. link alternatif casino

jahanghir khatri's picture

I am very much pleased with the contents you have mentioned. I wanted to thank you for this great article. Connect with me

jahanghir khatri's picture

Positive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. web hosting in pakistan

jahanghir khatri's picture

I am impressed. I don't think Ive met anyone who knows as much about this subject as you do. You are truly well informed and very intelligent. You wrote something that people could understand and made the subject intriguing for everyone. Really, great blog you have got here. Quality Marijuana Rosin For Sale USA

jahanghir khatri's picture

You have outdone yourself this time. It is probably the best, most short step by step guide that I have ever seen. lion breath carts

muhammad ali's picture

I have read your article; it is very informative and helpful for me. I admire the valuable information you offer in your articles. Thanks for posting it. old flour sifter

jahanghir khatri's picture

Cool stuff you have got and you keep update all of us. Online research repository

ayanshah's picture

Online gaming can help you make some cash. You don't to be the expert to do that. Even basic knowledge about several online games can get you through the next phase. It may be unbelievable but it's true. You don't have to farm your whole life just to get rich. Sharing the valuable information regarding the games will surely help you get started in making money online game. godslotxo

ayan shah's picture

If you are looking for more information about flat rate locksmith Las Vegas check that right away. private investigators spain

jahanghir khatri's picture

Positive site, where did u come up with the information on this posting?I have read a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style. Thanks a million and please keep up the effective work. zero-turn mowers

karlax 123's picture

I’ve read some good stuff here. Definitely worth bookmarking for revisiting. I surprise how much effort you put to create such a great informative website. MySlot188

muhammad ali's picture

I'm eager to reveal this page. I have to thank you for ones time for this especially awesome read!! I unquestionably extremely enjoyed all aspects of it and I likewise have you spared to fav to take a gander at new data in your site. amazon back scratchers

ayan shah's picture

Pretty good post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed reading your blog posts. Any way I'll be subscribing to your feed and I hope you post again soon. Big thanks for the useful info. ymail

jahanghir khatri's picture

I am very much pleased with the contents you have mentioned. I wanted to thank you for this great article. SLOT

jahanghir khatri's picture

Shenzhen Heat Hardware Co.,Ltd are screw manufacturer with over 20years specializing in custom fasteners for aerospace,automobile,electronics,electronic,Robot,Outdoor sport products,smart appliances etc ,our main products are stainless steel screw,brass screw,steel screw,sems screws,security screws,torx screw,Micro screw,precision screw,nylon patch screw,self tapping screw.plastic head screw.electronic screw,chicago screw.bolt,nuts,and other fasteners ,we can provide one-stop fastener custom service for you. stainless steel screw

karlax 123's picture

I have read your article, it is very informative and helpful for me.I admire the valuable information you offer in your articles. Thanks for posting it.. My188

karlax 123's picture

I visit your blog regularly and recommend it to all of those who wanted to enhance their knowledge with ease. The style of writing is excellent and also the content is top-notch. Thanks for that shrewdness you provide the readers! Tokosbobet Livechat

jahanghir khatri's picture

I recently found many useful information in your website especially this blog page. Among the lots of comments on your articles. Thanks for sharing. e-commerce website development in Karachi

jahanghir khatri's picture

What a fantabulous post this has been. Never seen this kind of useful post. I am grateful to you and expect more number of posts like these. Thank you very much. website design Karachi

jahanghir khatri's picture

Thanks for posting this info. I just want to let you know that I just check out your site and I find it very interesting and informative. I can't wait to read lots of your posts. 인싸포커

muneeb khatri's picture

I was taking a gander at some of your posts on this site and I consider this site is truly informational! Keep setting up.. rosacea behandeling

jahanghir khatri's picture

Thanks for posting this info. I just want to let you know that I just check out your site and I find it very interesting and informative. I can't wait to read lots of your posts. longisland

jahanghir khatri's picture

Thanks for posting this info. I just want to let you know that I just check out your site and I find it very interesting and informative. I can't wait to read lots of your posts. check this out

 

Molly Galler

Welcome to Pop.Bop.Shop. My name is Molly. I’m a foodie, fashionista, pop culture addict and serious travel junkie. I’m a lifelong Bostonian obsessed with frozen confections, outdoor patios, Mindy Kaling, reality television, awards shows, tropical vacations, snail mail and my birthday.

More from Molly

Pop.Bop.Shop. In the News