Recommended by:
Myself (I just really wanted to see this movie, okay?)
Movie Stats:
Released 2014 (USA)
American, in English
Director – Rob Thomas
Stars – Kristen Bell, Jason Dohring, Enrico Colantoni, Jerry O’Connell
Plot Summary:
A continuation of the TV series of the same name, plucky private investigator Veronica Mars (Bell) returns to her hometown of Neptune, CA in order to clear the name of her ex-boyfriend Logan Echolls (Dohring), who’s been accused of murder. Colantoni co-stars as Veronica’s dad Keith Mars and O’Connell as the new, even more evil sheriff Dan Lamb, brother of the previous evil sheriff.
Warnings:
Minimal blue language; non-graphic sexy times; minor violence (some mildly graphic).
Bad Stuff:
It feels less like a movie and more like an extended TV episode.
I didn’t really like that the story line with Weevil (Francis Capra) was left hanging, although it seemed like that was intentional, i.e. there are plans for a sequel. (Yay!)
With the high school reunion storyline, I felt a little confused at times as to whether some characters (i.e. Cobb, Susan Knight, etc.) were in the original show or not, which was frustrating.
Good Stuff:
If you’re a fan of the show (which I am), nearly the whole cast has returned here, which was truly a delight to see.
The best thing about the show – other than the witty dialogue, which is in abundance in the film – was always the relationships. So many of the actors have great chemistry with each other. Keith is one of my all-time favorite TV dads. I love seeing him joke and banter with Veronica while, at the same time, worrying over her. I love how Logan and Veronica are forever, inexorably drawn to one another. I love that Dick Casablancas (Ryan Hansen) remains a lovable, affable asshole that enjoys matching wits with Veronica as much as he hates her. The relationships are both fun and touching.
The mystery, as always, is multi-layered and complex. I was guessing until the end. You know I love a movie that manages to surprise me.
The Verdict:
I loved it. I think it had a few issues, as mentioned above. If you never liked the show, I don’t know why you’d even consider watching this. It’s pretty much exactly like the show, so don’t bother. If you never watched the show, you might want to before seeing the movie. I think the movie is enjoyable without seeing the show, but you might be a little lost, or at least feel like you’re missing out on some big joke (which you kind of are).
If, however, you liked the show, then you’ll probably like this. It’s immensely entertaining. I smiled the whole time and laughed quite a bit. I’m thrilled by the implication that there will be a sequel. Shut up and take my money, I say.
I give the movie 4.25 stars.
2 comments:
I loved it too! That cast is just so much fun. When Veronica surprises her dad they are so excited to see each other and it's like they really are that excited. It was also chock-full of fun lines.
This is one of those shows that makes me feel like the actors all got along and really enjoyed making it together. I like that.
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