Go Figure

Go Figure is a 2005 Disney Channel Original Movie, a vibrant coming-of-age tale starring Jordan Danger, Whitney Sloan, and Cristine Rose. Directed by Francine McDougall, this movie navigates through sportsmanship, dreams, ambition, friendship, and gaining maturity in a narrative painted on the ice with figure skating at its core.

In the film, the focal point is Katrina "Katelin" Kingsford, a gifted figure skater portrayed convincingly by Jordan Danger. Her hometown is Jamestown, where she lives with her affable and supportive parents. However, there's some trouble in paradise as her dream to train with the renowned, former Olympic skater Natasha Goberman (played by Cristine Rose) is hindered by financial constraints. Rose's performance as a stern, no-nonsense coach with a heart is commendable, successfully delivering a nuanced character who pushes Katelin toward her destiny.

That's when a hefty scholarship from the 'girl's hockey team' at Boston's elite school, Buckley College, comes into play. Katelin's strong ice-skating skills have been recognized, and she's offered a unique opportunity to join Buckley through the hockey team. The film takes an unexpected, comedic turn here as plucky Katelin must navigate the world of hockey, dealing with wayward pucks, and fumbling through a game she's completely unfamiliar with.

Whitney Sloan shines as the junior hockey team captain, Amy "Hollywood" Henderson. Her bitterness towards the newcomer, who threatens to displace her from her own team, evolves into admiration and friendship as the story unwinds.

The film highlights the differences between the world of figure skating and ice hockey, with the graceful, poised, and competitive world of figure skating contrasting starkly against the raw, energetic, and group-focused spirit of ice hockey. This difference becomes a central theme in the movie as Katelin experiences both worlds while trying to maintain her secret - using the scholarship just as a means to her true ambition.

This story unfolds amid charming cinematography, the hues of winter painting a perfect backdrop for the screenplay. The directors use a back-and-forth narrative style well, portraying Katelin's life at home and school, her training sessions in figure skating, and her struggles in the hockey team parallelly.

Adding another layer to the narrative is Katelin's academic life at her prestigious school, where she must maintain her image as an astute student to keep her scholarship intact. The film tactfully incorporates her academic demands, the pressure of keeping up her double life, and her teenage life's normal issues, creating a holistic picture of a teenager dealing with extraordinary circumstances in her pursuit to follow her dreams.

Go Figure also contains brilliant on-screen figure skating sequences - showcasing Jordan Danger's finesse with the sport. Synchronized with adroitly chosen music scores, these performances build the momentum and inevitably make a hearty impression on viewers. The film also delves into the physical tolls and rigorous training required to be a figure skater, further adding authenticity to the plot.

While, on the surface, it might just be another teenage sports film, Go Figure is much more. It addresses themes like jealousy, teamwork, friendship, the struggle of chasing your dreams, and dealing with failure. More importantly, it explores growth, both personal and professional, and the choices one has to make for their dreams.

Go Figure, bolstered by an engaging plotline and strong performances, is a delightful watch for all ages. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or enjoy heartwarming coming-of-age dramas, the storyline and distinct characters make it a must-watch. It successfully encapsulates the spirit of chasing dreams, belting out laughs, lessons, and inspiring all at the same time.