The film bursts onto the screen with robust energy, youth, and vigor. With tongue firmly in cheek, it pokes fun at everyone. Keep an eye out, between the square-in-your-face humor, there are also plenty of quietly subtle ironic jokes sprinkled throughout. But it’s the high octane tunes and dancing that keep this little number rocking.
Actually, the first half simply doesn’t let up. This is A+ entertainment, snappy dialogue, quick cuts, and hoppin’ music. Unfortunately though, the second half has a little trouble with its footing. But the music is still good and the hearty momentum barrels on.
As you may know, John Travolta plays a women, the main character’s mother. This takes some getting used to and seemed almost entirely senseless until I put two and two together and figured that the Michelle Pfeiffer character was probably supposed to be Olivia Newton John. That would be quite slick and fit in nicely with the film's quirky humor and homage to musicals of the past, namely “Grease.” That’s my guess. Anyway, it’s odd with just John, but it sort of almost works.
That said, let me just praise Christopher Walken. He’s such a joy to watch -- especially in roles like this (also see Catch Me if you Can) where he plays the caring parent. Overall, I enjoyed the film, great first half. All do a fine job of singing and dancing (save for Walken and Travolta -- but they‘re amusing anyway), Elijah Kelley stands out.
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