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Unfortunately, for some critics the comparison only reminds viewers how much more energy and originality that 2000 film possessed. Hellcats follows Aly Michalka in her role as Marti as she loses her college scholarship and tries out for the cheer squad to stay in school. She is befriended by the squad's overzealous captain (High School Musical's Ashley Tisdale) but is despised by the injured squad member she's replacing (Heather Hemmens).


The fun-but-flawed pilot is predictable and plays out like yet another weak Bring It On direct-to-video sequel. The conflicts feel forced and several of the students look well into their 30s. Michalka's Marti isn't very likable as she mouths off and mocks the cheerleaders.

Tisdale's performance is engaging and endearing. And the show's college setting and quippy characters make it ideal for its target demographic, particularly fans of ABC Family's Greek. Bottom line: Hellcats is like the squad it's named for -- with a little polish, it could be a winner.