Review of A Plumm Summer (2008) by Mark B — 25 Feb 2010

I'm not sure about the genesis of this film, but I'm wondering if it was intended as an ABC afternoon special. It certainly has that feel. This is a lightweight and vanilla production that gives us nothing of substance to grab onto. It is, however, a warm and fuzzy show that some younger ones will enjoy.

It all takes place in a splendid rural Montana town, circa 1960. Mom and Dad Plumm (Lisa Guerrero and Alec Baldwin) and their two sons, teenager Elliot and little Rocky, have their issues to deal with, but relatively speaking things are fairly blissful. Until local TV hero Froggy Doo is kidnapped. Hey, I tried to warn you.

Taking the shape of one Elliot's Hardy Boys books, the two Plumm brothers, with the help of Elliot's new heartthrob Haley, set off to solve the mystery.

It should be noted that this is probably an excellent film for a young family to enjoy together. Aside from Mr. Plumm's drinking problem, there's nothing to shield your kids from if that is what you are usually prone to do. But you might want to dump some shots in your hot chocolate for yourself to help you get through this.