ViewGuide

Created Aug 04, 2009 10:21PM PST • Edited May 09, 2016 11:09PM PST

1. Quality

2. Summary

   OK 2.5

   Formulaic story, competent execution and charming performances make 17 Again a successful teen dramedy, and a decent way to pass the time for coach passengers of all ages.

   Think of it as Heaven Can Wait meets High School Musical, sans music.

4. Acting

   OK 2.5

   Zac Efron really can act and shows it here. Matthew Perry can also act, but fails to show it here.

   Thomas Lennon – as the wacky nerd zillionaire – mugs heavily yet draws no laughs. Lame.

   Melora Hardin – as the comely principal he flips for – delivers a distinctive performance. Apparently she’s mostly a TV star but deserves more movie roles based on her success in this one.

5. Male Stars Very Good 3.5

6. Female Stars OK 2.5

7. Female Costars OK 2.5

8. Male Costars Barely OK 2.0

10. Film

    Good 3.0

11. Direction Good 3.0

12. Play Good 3.0

13. Music Good 3.0

14. Visuals Barely OK 2.0
15. Content

16. Edge

    Tame 1.2

17. Sex Innocent 1.5

18. Violence Gentle 1.0

19. Rudeness Polite 1.0

21. Reality

    Glib 1.9

    One central reality conceit, otherwise normal normalcy.

22. Circumstantial Surreal 2.1

23. Biological Surreal 2.5

24. Physical Natural 1.0