Review of Ricki and the Flash (2015) by Jeff B — 26 Aug 2015

Following more along the lines of the semi-decent band romp Eddie & the Cruisers than the rocking classic song "Bennie & the Jets," familiar-sounding performance piece Ricki and the Flash oftentimes feels like a cover of a cover artist. There come times when this fractured family tale feels fresh and revealing, but mostly when Ricki spars with her daughter. This derives from the chemistry way more than storytelling, however. You see, Meryl Streep and her real-life daughter Mamie Gummer provide the dynamic so - because both are also excellent actors as well as blood relatives - the emotion reaches almost palpable heights.

In this PG-13-rated drama, a musician (Streep) who gave up everything for her dream of rock-and-roll stardom returns home, looking to make things right with her family (Gummer, Kevin Kline).

The script also hits some high notes thanks to the sharp wit of Diablo Cody (Juno, Young Adult). Oh, the goings-on prove predictable for the most part but the acid-tongued zingers keep things interesting. Lastly, while Streep's singing won't wow the Grammy committee, her spirited stage presence and the camaraderie among her band sell the title act extremely well, especially some of the flick's stand-out scenes between her and partner Rick Springfield. As an overall singer, he may wish that he had "Jessie's Girl," but - considering they play broke, middle-aged cover bandmates working L.A. dive bars - they fit the bill. If only the film aimed higher than the aspirations of the leads.

Bottom line: Ricki Do Lose that Number.