by Tim Gordon
In Mamma Mia!: Here We Go Again, Sophie finds out more about her mother’s past while seeking guidance on how to handle her pregnancy in the sequel to the popular musical, Mamma Mia!.
Written and directed by Ol Parker, from a story by Parker, Catherine Johnson, and Richard Curtis. It is the sequel and prequel to the 2008 film Mamma Mia!, which is based on the musical of the same name. The film stars Lily James, Amanda Seyfried, Christine Baranski, Julie Walters, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Stellan Skarsgård, Dominic Cooper, Andy Garcia, Cher and Meryl Streep.
Ten years after the original film, the gang returns for both the prequel and the sequel to the story highlighting Donna’s (Streep) journey as well as a party celebrating her legacy. Much like the journey of the Corleone family in The Godfather 2, we discover young Donna’s (James) roots she wanders from place to place in search of her destiny, while watching her daughter preparing to open up beautiful villa in her honor. While the finished product falls well below that classic, this film has its charms. Using many of the same songs from the first film, Parker, Johnson, and Curtis do a great job of structuring a story with the songs moving the story along. Both James and Seyfried sparkle as the focal point of the film.
The beautiful scenery, the vibrant atmosphere, and bouncy songs create an intoxicating blend, which proves enjoyable, and a winning combination.
Kudos to the talented ensemble cast which includes Cher, Baranski, Walters, Brosnan, Firth, Skarsgård, and Garcia who are the definition of supporting players in this crowd-pleasing drama. Surprisingly romantic, tender, and heartfelt, Mamma Mia!: Here We Go Again is a welcome addition to the summer movie lineup.
Grade: B
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