Rebel Wilson’s pop comedy “Girl Group” premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival and draws predominantly negative reviews from critics. Multiple outlets describe it as aiming for the energy of past girl-group-era music while struggling to sustain a coherent, engaging film experience.
The Guardian frames the film as a “wannabe” tribute to girl groups and “girl power” music, noting a cast that includes Mel C, Shaznay Lewis, Ashley Roberts, and Nicole Scherzinger, along with a soundtrack built around covers of well-known acts. However, the review characterizes the production as shoddily made, embarrassingly unfunny, and lacking in substance, even suggesting its look and presentation feel commercialized rather than cinematic. Variety similarly criticizes the film for excessive, awkwardly extended pop performance sequences, portraying it as a gaudy, “Pitch Perfect” clone-like comedy that runs out of steam.
Overall, both reviews emphasize that while the premise and music-culture details may appeal to certain nostalgia-driven audiences, the film’s execution—particularly the pacing and reliance on lengthy musical numbers—limits its impact.