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.

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.

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.

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!

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!