This is the Year

So I wanted something easygoing that won't ruin my day or make me sad. For that purpose This Is the Year was the correct choice.

Yet it's also quite forgettable. You can watch it even more than once. How do I know? Somewhere after 20 minutes I realized that I knew the movie already. Usually I remember a movie after a scene or two.

The characters are likeable, the story somewhat a new take on an old story. There are more or less predictable ups and downs. There is some visible character development.

So why just 6 of 10 stars? The movie is not memorable because it tries too hard to make everybody happy. All the kids and young adults are likeable. The alcohol drinking, conflicts and problems are too timid to feel real.

The only "bad guy" is for some reason the older "spiritual" boyfriend who's only a caricature of spirituality ("positive vibes only"). That ruined it a bit for me. Why pick on being spiritual? They could have made him a bit more career-driven. That would be more likely and relatable.

For a road trip movie leading to a festival there was not enough "sex, drugs and rock and roll."

So watch this harmless coming of age movie with your preteen kids if you want. The insights are valuable but too Captain Obvious for an adult audience IMHO. Otherwise it's a guilty pleasure for a slow day or when you're sick.

Also kudos for the leads: they were both in their late twenties yet played teens and I didn't even notice until I looked it up here.

A great film reminiscent of John Hughes' iconic work throughout the 80's. The cast nailed their respective parts and it was a fun journey start to finish. David impresses in his directorial debut and Lorenzo was an engaging and charismatic lead. Would highly recommend!

I saw this movie last summer and loved it! This movie had me hooked from start to finish with it's charm, charisma, smart story telling, and clear message to the audience. Re-live what it was like falling in love when you were younger. Perfect Feel-Good movie!

Wasn't sure what to fully expect, but I actually really enjoyed this movie. Was looking for something fun and age appropriate for teens without being too agressive. Great pick for my kids and they loved it. I caught this the first time around on their initial launch. Really fun, enjoyable ride. Thought the acting was great, found myself rooting along for the characters. I watched this as a mom with younger kids and highly suggest for those with preteens and teens looking for fun clean content.

I just streamed this and have all the nostalgic feels! Lorenzo Henrie does a banging job playing Josh. And Vanessa Marano (one of my faves) steals every scene she is in as Molly. I'd pay to see an entire spin off with her just screaming at Jared (Josh Rhett Noble) in the theater. What a fun escape!