This Is the Year

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!

A true nod to the bodacious 80's movies we all learned to love, THIS IS THE YEAR brings an often told story to life on screen with humor, expertly directed shots by director David Henrie (Wizards of Waverly Place) and a cast of standout talent. (Not to mention somewhat of a WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE reunion with Selena Gomez producing, Gregg Sulkin as Kale and Jeff Garlin as Mr. Elmer.)

Lorenzo James Henrie (Fear the Walking Dead) plays Josh with earnest puppy-dog eyed optimism. Molly (Vanessa Marano - Gilmore Girls) is the true wing man...erm...wing woman to Josh's antics.

Marano is quite possibly the most captivating in the film, drawing you into every scene she graces. Her comedic timing allows her to volley back and forth with the entire cast, including the hilarious BroadwayWorld Award Winner Josh Rhett Noble (Law & Order: SVU, TIME: The Kalief Browder Story) seen in a comedic cameo as grumpy "patron" Jared. (Whom we assume must just live at the theater.)

The rest of the cast does a stellar job teetering between the over-the-top tubular antics you'd expect in 80's classics but grounding the scenes with truth. Alyssa Jirrels (The Good Doctor, Girl Meets World) is especially good at this as Zoey, bringing an affable and endearing portrayal to what would usually be the one dimensional "hot girl". Same goes for Jake Short (A. N. T. Farm) who brings his character of Mikey to life with ease.

It may be a love tale as old as time, but if you find yourself "jonesing" for a great classic escape, THIS IS THE YEAR has got it. TOTALLY!

This Is the Year is a nostalgic, feel-good film that hits all the right notes-literally! The story has all the charm of a classic coming-of-age road trip, with plenty of humour, heart, and a dash of romance. What really elevates this movie, though, is the fantastic music. The soundtrack perfectly captures the energy and emotions of the characters as they navigate through life's ups and downs, and it's a key part of what makes the film so enjoyable.

The songs are catchy, well-placed, and add so much to the overall vibe of the movie. Whether you're a fan of indie rock or pop, the soundtrack will stick with you long after the credits roll. It's a mix of modern tracks and timeless tunes that really help set the mood for each scene.

The cast does a great job, and while the plot may follow familiar territory, it's done in such a heartfelt way that you can't help but get wrapped up in it. If you're looking for a movie that's fun, has great music, and leaves you with a smile, This Is the Year is definitely worth checking out.

Personally, I don't see this becoming a cult classic. The film started off so fast paced I didn't think anything would peak my interest. I soon realized that the movie was appropriate and genuine, and I was so comfortable getting to know these characters.

I did like the premise of this high school senior living his life like a movie, and learning hard lessons on this cross-country road trip while he professed love to his best friend's cousin. I liked the homage to 1980s John Hughes classic movies as well. Lorenzo James Henrie and Vanessa Marano are so likable, attractive, and fun together- I really enjoyed their chemistry.

Some sections like the music/dance scenes and the conflict between Zoey and Kaleb didn't work for me. Also Jeff Garlin as the English teacher was an odd casting choice- he's more humorous on Curb Your Enthusiasm. Those were minuscule observations that didn't affect my rating.

It's a medium grade film, but with enough heart for me to give a recommendation for families.

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!