Saturday, June 11, 2011

Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer Movie Review: Great For Both Kids and Adults


Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer is based off the children's series by Megan McDonald and they are extremely popular among young girls. Now Judy Moody is on screen in real-sized technicolor and she is winning over hearts everywhere.

If you aren't familiar with the book series, it's probably because you don't have a young girl in your house. But you're not alone. I hadn't read any of the books before seeing this film and it doesn't matter. It's fun, vibrant, energetic, and full of life.
Australian newcomer Jordana Beatty plays the spunky, fun-loving Judy Moody with great spirit and amazing energy. Sometimes a little too much energy! Doesn't she ever get tired?

The books mainly take place during school, but this feature film finds Judy out of the classroom and trying to have the best summer ever.

She soon learns that it might be a lot harder than she had originally planned. Her two best friends are heading off to fun summer adventures of their own, leaving her behind. To make matters worse, her parents are going to Los Angeles for the summer and leaving her and her brother Stink at home with their Aunt Opal, whom they've never met. Things are really low for Judy.

It takes a while for Judy to realize that fun is what you make of it. She is so consumed with having what she thinks is a fun summer that she forgets to enjoy the moment. She had a tightrope walking contest, gets a puke snow cone in the face, and searches for big foot. Sounds pretty interesting.

Heather Graham gets in touch with her younger side again, playing the vivacious and artistic Aunt Opal with as much charisma and energy as all the young kids around her. She is a great match for her younger co-star Jordana and the two have an amazing chemistry on screen.

Preston Bailey plays Judy's younger brother Stink who is focused on finding Big Foot - he has been spotted, so he must exist. He plays the annoying younger brother with amazing comic timing. Bailey is a great young actor and is hilarious in the film. He delivers his lines with such a funny sarcasm, you can't help but laugh at what he's saying. He's the life of the part when Judy is sulking about her latest adventures gone array.

Jaleel White (Family Matters) also makes an appearance in the film as the lovable Mr. Todd. He's the teacher every kid would ever dream of having in fifth grade. He does a great job connecting with the kids and plays a pretty integral part in their summer fun.

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