Mixtape follows twelve-year-old Beverly (Gemma Brooke Allen) in 1999. She lives with her grandmother Gail (Julie Bowen) after her parents died in a car crash. One day, Beverly finds a mixtape from her parents and goes on a journey to find out more about them and about herself. She is accompanied by her friends Nicky (Olga Petsa), Ellen (Audrey Hsieh) and Anti (Nick Thune).
This film is incredible. It radiates fun vibes that young audiences need today. The comedy is perfectly balanced to give the movie a lighthearted feel, but doesn't distract from Beverly's quest to find out more about her family. The flick really does resemble life in the 90s, with phrases, taunts and wardrobe that are appropriate to the era. The characters are so loveable. Anti is hilarious with his dry humor which compliments Beverly's eccentric personality. Nicky, Ellen and Beverly make a perfect and unlikely trio. They are all funny, work great together as a team, and are strong together - just as strong as they are individually. The writers fit so many relationships and themes into this movie - friendship, family and finding yourself. It's incredible how they focus on so many topics without jumbling them and making a huge mess. Audiences need a film like Mixtape because it's a breath of fresh air. It's easy to get exhausted from heavily dramatic movies and Mixtape is the perfect comfort movie.
There are several themes in this movie. Beverly learns to find confidence in herself plus she finds amazing friends. She also learns to live life to the fullest, seeing it through new lenses and getting out of her comfort zone.
I give Mixtape 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 16. It begins streaming on Netflix December 3, 2021.< p>By Heather S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15
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