Review of Hannah Montana: The Movie (2009) by Kirsten W — 18 Jan 2010

Let me say right off the bat that I've never been a big Hannah Montana fan, although I've seen a number of episodes and know the premise. I finally got around to watching this movie, and was VERY pleasantly surprised! Well-written, fun, and in parts very poignant and moving.

The script is well-done. Far from feeling like the over-the-top comedy and dialogue of the TV series, it actually has a very mature feel it to it. While the "over-the-top" moments are there, they aren't overpowering, and the honest feel of the script really keeps them from feeling out of control.

Miley Cyrus is certainly coming into her own as an actress; I thought she did a fantastic job. And I'll admit, I love the goofball older brother, Jackson (Jason Earles). He was always a favorite of mine! Jason Earles gives a great performance - while he's not the star, he certainly manages to shine when given his moments!

I really love that they decided to film in Tennessee, because the scenery, the landscape, it all fits perfectly with the tone of the film. Gorgeous!!!

And speaking of tone, while Miley's songs obviously take center stage, I really, really loved the film's score, and found myself cursing Walt Disney Records for not releasing an original score soundtrack to this one! Nice use of the "The Climb" and "Butterfly Fly Away" themes... Disney! We want a score CD! Miley's songs are great, too. "The Climb," which got well-deserved radio play, sort of felt like my own anthem these days. "Butterfly Fly Away" is a beautiful, moving duet between Miley and her dad, Billy Ray Cyrus. And if "Hoedown Throwdown" doesn't get you bopping to the beat... well, you have no soul.

If you've never seen the show, don't worry. If you don't even know the basic premise, don't worry. (I'll give you a hint: teen girl has a secret double life as a pop superstar that she can't tell anyone.) The film shows you everything you need to know before the opening credits are even finished. I can't think of ANY moments where someone who doesn't know the first thing about the show would be lost. So you have no excuse.

Bottom line? Well worth checking out. Even if you tend to avoid the TV series or are sick of the merchandising (because, let's face it, so am I) or haven't ever even heard of Hannah Montana (if you haven't, you should probably come out from under your rock)... watch it. Leave your prejudices at the door and just enjoy. It's not the pinnacle of filmmaking, but it's still a great, enjoyable film!