Review of Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer (2011) by Brett S — 31 Jan 2013

Don't believe the "top critics." Worth the time to watch if you have the ability to leave your pre-conceived notions behind and judge this film standing alone.

The critics judge this film against the books (that appear to be quite popular and well-written) rather than film itself. I admit I did not read all of the critics comments, but, one common thread was that the film was unworthy of praise because it promotes kids not wearing seat belts and, of all things, eating candy!! The critics compare it to other films and tv shows, but that easily falls into the apples vs. oranges category. Its worse sin, however, is that . . . gasp . . . it won't appeal to adults. WTF?!! I know going in its a kids movie and only so may Toy Stories come along once in a blue moon.

So, what are the merits of this film? It is well written, acted and directed. The underlying big foot plot and the main plot compete quite nicely. The characters are stock, but so what, they work well together. Heather Graham's character is nothing we haven't seen before but she brings energy to the role.

I watched it with my 3 year old daughter and while she laughed only at the more obvious comic episodes, I found myself laughing out loud at some of the more subtle set ups. The film's pacing was refreshingly quick and appropriate.