Review of Jersey Boys (2014) by Fantasy — 21 Jun 2014

Let me preface my review by telling you that the Broadway Musical Jersey Boys is one of my all time favorites. I have seen it a total of 12 times. Having said that I must report that it would be very tough to compare any movie to the actual Broadway show.

Believe me I wanted to LOVE it. Unfortunately Director Clint Eastwood who I think the world of is absolutely clueless in directing this movie. Whereas the Broadway version captures the audience's attention in the first few minutes putting a smile on your face, the movie is dark, tedious, and very slow for the first hour or so.

It just doesn't resonate with the viewer.. The second hour is somewhat better, but where the Broadway audience is taken on a joy ride, handing out standing ovations, while at the same time, crying with Frankie Valli on the death of his beloved daughter, this movie version just falls flat on its face.

There is little or no character development. The fabulous songs of the Four Seasons are treated more or less like window dressing, nothing more. To be perfectly honest, the best part of the movie is when its over, the credits are rolling, and the cast is singing and dancing in the street.

I would have loved to give Jersey Boys a perfect ten but it's impossible to do so. I recommend that when the touring company comes to your City, run don't walk, to see one of the best shows Broadway has ever produced.

I'm sorry to say the movie does it no justice. Sorry.