17 AGAIN
RYAN: It’s just what the world has been waiting for – a new Zac Efron movie. The ‘tweens and teens who love “High School Musical” must think it’s their birthday what with the release of “17 Again.”
CAROLINE: As a thirty-something, I’m much more excited about Matthew Perry being in a movie again. Much to my dismay though, I did not get to attend the screening for this movie with you; but I fully intend to pay my own 12 bucks to see it soon.
RYAN: I’m happy to let you know it will be money well spent. You’re going to love this movie, even though it’s certainly not perfect. There’s one over-the-top character at the beginning, and the special effects are really cheesy, even poor; but aside from that, the rest is very well done. I was very into the love story.
CAROLINE: I can’t say I’m too surprised because I thought Zac Efron was really good in the trailer. I also really like the guy from “The State” who plays Matthew Perry’s friend and then dad once he becomes a teenager again. Overall, it looks very cute to me. Please tell me it’s funny.
RYAN: It made me laugh out loud several times, and Zac definitely is good. And even though he recently pulled out of the “Footloose” remake, claiming he doesn’t want to be pigeonholed as a musical person, the movie opens with a full-on dance number.
CAROLINE: Well, he probably filmed this months before he decided he didn’t want to be the guy who always sings and dances anymore.
RYAN: Leslie Mann, real-life wife to director/writer/producer Judd Apatow, plays the wife, and this is the best role she’s ever done. She has the most lines she’s ever had, and she’s great.
CAROLINE: Level with me – is Matthew in the movie at all?
RYAN: Not much; really just the beginning and end, as you would expect. It’s predictable in that sense.
CAROLINE: The premise isn’t hugely original, but it’s definitely one that works. We all loved “Freaky Friday” and “Big.”
RYAN: Zac really nails Matthew Perry’s mannerisms. I was impressed; he clearly did his research.
— BOTTOM LINE —
RYAN: I went in with pretty low expectations, thinking it was going to be cliché and stupid, but I really liked it. I’m neither a huge Zac Efron fan, nor a big “Friends” fan, but the story was compelling and the emotional aspect of the movie was great. I even got a little misty at the end. I recommend it.
CAROLINE: I vow to see it as soon as I can.
— RATING–
