DVD Review 17 Again

Directed by: Burr Steers Cast: Zac Efron, Leslie Mann, Thomas Lennon, Matthew Perry Time: 1 hr 30 min Rating: PG 13 Due Out: August 11, 2009

Plot: Mike O’Donnell (Perry) yearns to relive his senior year in order to undo past mistakes. When a janitorial “spirit guide” hears O’Donnell bemoaning his lost youth, he arranges for O’Donnell to fall off a bridge into a magical whirlpool that transforms O’Donnell into a teenager (Efron). But here's the thing, he stays in the present time, only now he's 17, again. Who’s It For? Anyone with a crush on Efron. Plus, many people think back on their past, wondering what they would have done differently. Here's yet another chance to vicariously live through actors doing it in a movie.

Movie: It's not as bad as I was thinking. I know that doesn't sound like much, but I had a good amount of fear that this would be an awful reverse version of Big with Tom Hanks. Staying in the present and not heading back to the 80s is a nice touch. Efron proves he can act and the script is smart enough to avoid him making out with teenagers, but instead giving them halfway decent advice. The side characters truly add a great deal to this film with Thomas Lennon being the stand out. Gives someone the keys to the nerd castle is a great way to get laughs and Lennon does a good job respecting the fans of Star Wars and Lord of the Rings while making fun of them. Score: 6/10

EXTRAS

Previews including Me and Orson Welles

Extras Score: 1/10

OVERALL

They've given you no reason to own this DVD. No commentary from Efron. No making of moments. I was hoping to hear the director discuss what themes and movies inspired this concept. I was hoping to hear the cast talk about what things they would have done differently if given the chance. Oh well. Sure, this movie will please for a rental, but when your daughter wants to own this one, aren't you just adding to her obsession?

Final Score: 5/10

17 Again Mash Game