The Banger Sisters

Old groupies don't die, they just become SUV-driving, Donna Karan-wearing, what-would-the-neighbors-think soccer moms in Phoenix--which is a fate worse than death according to the aging rock ‘n‘ roll sexpot played by Goldie Hawn in The Banger Sisters. All leather pants and augmented boobs, Hawn is hilarious as she tries to resuscitate the fun-loving libertine lost inside her former backstage best friend (Susan Sarandon)--now a conservative, handbag-clutching suburbanite. Wringing this choice premise for more risqué laughs than you might expect from a fluff job aimed at the Lifetime Channel demographic, the film is blessed with fantastically spirited performances from perfectly-cast stars who have terrific chemistry and comedic timing. Yes, the plot is simplistic--especially when it comes to the conflicts that arise in Sarandon's shocked family once she rediscovers her wild side--but the movie provides enough exuberant amusement to begrudgingly forgive its trite shortcomings. Recommended, with reservations. [Note: DVD extras include widescreen and full screen editions, commentary by writer-director Bob Dolman, a blooper reel and a trailer. Bottom line: always nice to see a disc with full screen and widescreen options for the price of one, and the extras here are decent as well; if only the film had more going for it then a handful of good one-liners and the fine cast.] (R. Blackwelder)