Mama Mia! Here We Go Again – Beautiful Setting, Hilarious Storyline, Great Music
Discover Donna’s (Meryl Streep, Lily James) young life, experiencing the fun she had with the three possible dads of Sophie (Amanda Seyfriend). As she reflects on her mom’s journey, Sophie finds herself to be more like her mother than she ever even realized. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jolleen M. comments, “This film has many beautiful settings and hilarious scenes that had the audience laughing. I love the unique story line that is unpredictable and interesting.” Morgan B. adds, “This classic mother / daughter story is more heartwarming then ever. Plus, there are a few twists and turns that make it a perfect family friendly film that I thoroughly enjoyed.” See their full reviews below.
Mama Mia! Here We Go Again
By Jolleen M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13
This film has many beautiful settings and hilarious scenes that had the audience laughing. I love the unique story line that is unpredictable and interesting. Although I enjoyed it, younger children might not understand some of the jokes. This film is for more mature audiences.
We learn more about Donna’s (Meryl Streep, Lily James). We learn about Sophie’s (Amanda Seyfried) three possible dads and what risks Donna took for Sophie. Sophie now is pregnant and finishing up her mother’s dream of fixing up the property to become a beautiful hotel.
Lily James has to do a lot of difficult acting in this film and she pulls through. She fits the personality of the younger Donna perfectly, which is great because it makes it easier to see the connection between younger and present day Donna. All the actors have amazing singing voices, whether they are singing solos or blending their voices with the others. They break out in song often and I wasn’t bothered about that at all. They are all great dancers and seem to really just have fun.
The sets are so pleasing to the eye. The setting on a Greek island with gorgeous views are amazing. All of the cities look authentic and colorful, which makes everything even more pleasing to watch. The costumes are colorful and flashy as well.
My favorite part of the film is when two of Sophie’s three possible fathers attend her party and they bring many guests. Sophie is so happy to see her fathers in that scene and to have everyone see how much hard work had been done to renovate the property. I also like this scene because, on the boats people, are climbing everywhere, dancing and singing together. This scene is really hyped up and has so much energy.
One message of this film is that family should always love you and be there for one another, no matter what. In this film, Sophie’s three dads all stick with her and support her, even though they are very busy. They never abandon her or her mother.
This is definitely an unpredictable and interesting film. To better understand it, it would be best to watch the previous one, Mamma Mia. I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 13 to 18, as well as adults. It opens July 20, 2018, so check it out!
Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again
By Morgan B. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Age 13
Songs, songs, and more songs! Mamma Mia, you have done it once again with your newest addition to the family tree being Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again and boy, am I loving it. This classic mother / daughter story is more heartwarming then ever. Plus, there are a few twists and turns that make it a perfect family friendly film that I thoroughly enjoyed.
One thing I like about this film is that they bring old characters back and introduce new ones to keep the sequel fresh and interesting. This is one of the treasureable factors in the series, which makes it fun to watch and relatable for any generation.
Young Donna (Lilly James) is a free spirited, independent young woman, which is what I like about her. At the same time of being fun and silly, she can be on fire and refuse whoever stands in her way. This is one of her best qualities, Also, Donna’s fun spunk really shows in her daughter, Sophie (Amanda Seyfried), whom I admire greatly.
Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) is without question a fighter. She has a kind heart and strong determination, which I admire. However, she is grieving the loss of her mother and needs a bit a guidance to help her through this dark time, which makes her character seem even stronger.
Sky (Dominic Copper), Rosie (Julie Walters), Tanya (Christine Baranski), Sam (Pierce Brosnan), Cher (Rudy Sheridan), Donna (Meryl Streep) and the rest of the case are all terrific co-stars and great singers. When the film ended, everyone in the audience applauded. I’m a big fan of ABBA songs and want to get the CD as soon as it comes out.
The best scene, with lots of dancing, singing and stunning views, is when Sophie and two of her mother’s friends sing about boys and about not looking into their cute little eyes. I still can hear them singing “don’t look into their angel eyes or you’ll get hypnotized.” Honestly, it is very funny and I loved this scene.
I should mention that the scenery is just stupendous. Wherever you look there is eye candy, since this film takes place on a Greek island. There is always a scenic view on screen. Another thing I love about the location is that it looks as if you are standing right there and could jump right into the screen. However, movies don’t work like that, so we have take a boat or plane to see these views in person.
I recommend this film for ages 8 to 18. Everyone who watches this will love the breathtaking scenery, fabulous acting and the music. This film is perfect for summer viewing by the whole family because, after all, it truly is all about family and the joy they bring. I give this 5 out of 5 ABA stars. Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again is in theaters now, so check it out.
Photos © Universal Pictures