Synopsis: In 17 Again, A 37 year old man who is unhappy with how his life turned out wishes he could go back and make different choices. His wish comes true and he finds himself in high school again at the age of 17.
Release Date: April 17, 2009 MPAA Rating: PG-13
Genre(s): Comedy, Children and Family
Film Review
Production
17 Again is a great movie that will have you laughing and possibly even weeping as the story unfolds. It is more than just a teen comedy as it deals mostly with family and the relationships formed between parents and children; and the difficult nature of those relationships. 17 Again essentially mixes comedy and drama together to give a rewarding movie-going experience for teens and adults alike. The basis for the storyline in 17 Again may have been done before but this time the repetitiveness is a welcome treat as it has enough of the ‘new’ to make you forget you’ve seen something like this before.
Acting
Accolades must be given to Zac Efron for his portrayal of a 35 year-old man trapped in his teen body version of himself in 17 Again. The fact that he looks like a teenager is all but forgotten the minute he opens his mouth, walks, gestures, you name it, he comes across as being anything but 17. It is with such a great performance that 17 Again itself is as good as it is, for if he had merely played a teenager there would be zero believability. Well done all around Efron.
Chemistry
It may seem a bit strange when considering the chemistry in 17 Again as it is between a 17-year-old boy and a 35-year-old woman. Then again, the 17-year-old is actually 35, so the weirdness fades as you are watching because the chemistry between Mike (Zac Efron) and Scarlett (Leslie Mann) is exceptional. There is an awkwardness between them that is essentially sexual tension that radiates off the screen and provides believability that he is actually her soon to be ex-husband in a teenagers body. From the way they look at each other to the moments where they get to close for comfort, it is a hilarious and deeply gratifying romance, in the most unconventional of circumstances.
Costumes
The character of Ned has one of the most hilarious and perfectly suited costume designs in 17 Again. A geek to the core, he parades around in his vintage Star Wars t-shirts, paisley sport coats and all sorts of other get-ups that will make you laugh from just looking at him. The clothing completely reflects his personality and only adds to the comic relief that Ned provides throughout the film.
Uniqueness
I would tell you what is unique about 17 Again but let’s see if you can spot it…look for a fantastic homage to Back to the Future.
Cast and Crew
- Director(s): Burr Steers
- Screenwriter: Jason Filardi
- Cast: Zac Efron (Mike O’Donnell), Leslie Mann (Scarlett O’Donnell), Thomas Lennon (Ned Gold), Matthew Perry (Mike O’Donnel), Michelle Trachtenberg (Maggie O’Donnell), Sterling Knight (Alex O’Donnell)
- Editor(s): Padraic McKinley
- Cinematographer: Tim Suhrstedt
- Production Designer(s): Garreth Stover
- Country Of Origin: USA
