A Review: Mamma Mia!

If you want a feel good movie experience where thinking is not necessary, I highly recommend seeing Mamma Mia. The film, directed by Phyllida Lloyd is no grand masterpiece of cinematography, but it certainly is a good time. I was guilty of singing ABBA hits as I left the theater. The character of the young bride-to-be, free-spirited Sophie is played by Amanda Seyfried who has a magnificent voice. Her portrayal of the character is light and breezy while she attempts to figure out who her true father is the day before her wedding.

Sophie's mom, Donna, is played by Meryl Streep who looks fantastic. Her singing voice isn't bad either. Donna was a free-spirit in her youth, but now has grown older and more adult. Sophie stumbles upon Donna's diary and learns that her dad could be one of three men. The three suspected dads Bill, Sam, and Harry played respectively by Stellan Skarsgard, Pierce Brosnan, and Colin Firth also bring flavor to the movie.

Bill, Sam, and Harry are invited to the wedding by Sophie without Donna's knowledge. When Donna stumbles upon her former lovers she is thrown back into the past. Sophie tries to get to know each of her potential fathers. However, all of them decide they want to be the one to walk her down the aisle at her wedding.

To make a long story short, Sophie decides marriage isn't right for her at this time in her life. But Donna finds love with Sam (Pierce Brosnan). The musical scenes in Mamma Mia are light and airy. The dancing isn't fabulous but illustrates the hap-hazard nature of the film. The sing for the most part is tolerable except when Pierce Brosnan takes the stage--cover your ears. He should stick to just being debonair and chivalrous.

The setting of the movie is absolutely gorgeous--set in Greece, this movie's scenery is breathtaking. I personally have never seen the Broadway version of Mamma Mia, but I would definitely consider buying a ticket after seeing the movie. So, if you are having a low day or can't beat the heat, head to the movie theater and enjoy Mamma Mia.