White Chicks (2004)

Two disgraced FBI agents go way undercover in an effort to protect hotel heiresses the Wilson sisters from a kidnapping plot.

Jess’ Review

A controversial film as much as it is a cult one, White Chicks is a classic example of noughties raunchy comedy. And honestly, I love it. Though I feel a bit conflicted announcing that, considering quite how problematic it is.

The plot is beyond flimsy, following two FBI officers (Shawn and Marlan Wayans) as they go undercover as two wealthy, white women in a bid to salvage their tattered careers. Truth be told, I hardly acknowledge the storyline anymore. For me, this film is a small clip reel of some absolutely iconic scenes that never fail to make me laugh. And that’s my biggest draw. I don’t care what anyone says, I think White Chicks is funny. And maybe that says something about my sense of humour, but despite countless viewings, I laugh. When I’ve had a rough week, I know Terry Crews singing along to Vanessa Felton will make even the darkest of moods that little bit brighter. It’s a comedy to shut-off to - absurd, eccentric and quick to whisk your mind away to this nonsensical world of espionage.

Visually it’s nothing remarkable, but it hasn’t aged quite as badly as one might expect. The script, though messy, is littered with treasured lines that have soared to cult status. I’m not afraid to admit that the foundations of one particular university friendship was built on White Chicks quotes.

The acting is - as you’d expect - over-the-top. The Wayans Brothers are on form and head the movie with their typical flamboyance. Terry Crews is an absolute gem here (as he is in most of his supporting roles) and is quick to steal scenes in his fleeting moments, which is testament to his talents in comedy. Even the smaller roles, Tiffany and Brittany’s girl gang in particular, are great and introduce a whole lot of relatability to an otherwise chaotic film. In fact some of my favourite moments feature these girls - be it the perfect depiction of clothes shopping or the spontaneous sleepovers. It introduces a nice balance to the madness.

Now, in truth, White Chicks is a bad film. It’s full of cheap, gross-out humour and a plot line so fragile a strong breeze would shatter it. But this is why it’s loved. Aficionados of bad movies and OG silly comedies should be thing twice before swerving White Chicks. It is a classic.

7/10