A Feel Good Comedy That Puts You In A Happy Optimistic Mood
The highly anticipated sequel follows our four best friends as they take their book club to Italy for the fun girls’ trip they never had. When things go off the rails and secrets are revealed, their relaxing vacation turns into a once-in-a-lifetime cross-country adventure.
KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Mikella G. comments, “Book Club: The Next Chapter is a feel good, comedic film. It’s entertaining and light hearted, putting you in a happy optimistic mood. I really enjoy the beautiful scenery shown throughout the film. As the four friends travel throughout Italy, we see the sights of Rome, Venice and Tuscany.” Julie S. adds, “What a delightful romp this is! I came away from watching it with an extra spring in my step and a sense of joie de vivre. The cast truly had a good time and it’s contagious. It’s in theaters now, so drop what you’re doing and catch a matinee today. You’ll be glad you did.” See their full reviews below.
Book Club: The Next Chapter
Mikella G., KIDS FIRST!, Film Critic, age 17
Book Club: The Next Chapter is a feel good, comedic film. It’s entertaining and light hearted, putting you in a happy optimistic mood.
Book Club: The Next Chapter, a sequel to Book Club, brings together four best friends, who finally reunite after being in quarantine. In order to celebrate Vivian’s (Jane Fonda) big news and go on their long awaited girls’ trip, the group departs for Italy. While on their trip, they encounter many obstacles and surprises, providing the ladies a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
I really enjoy the beautiful scenery shown throughout the film. As the four friends travel throughout Italy, we see the sights of Rome, Venice and Tuscany. Most of the movie was filmed on location, which is an incredible aspect that really elevates the film. Everything is so colorful and eye-catching, which definitely made me much more engaged. When I look at a fun and exciting scene, I’m automatically more interested in what I’m watching. This movie definitely has that effect. Additionally, the characters really stand out. Each of the women has such a distinct personality. For example, Diane (Diane Keaton) is more reluctant and very set in her ways. Carol (Mary Steenburgen) is very optimistic and wants to be adventurous. Then there’s Vivian who is finally stepping out of her comfort zone and taking a leap of faith, and lastly Sharon (Candice Bergen) who knows exactly what she wants, and won’t let anyone change her opinions. All the characters have different personalities but they all cohesively work together.
Each actor excels in her role and really brings her character to life for a second time in this sequel. The strong chemistry and friendship between these women is evident, and really made me feel so fulfilled and happy to watch them on their adventure. The storyline is a lot of fun and has many dynamics. While the women are in Italy they encounter many rough patches. They constantly have to reroute their trip, and even run into people and memories that slow them down a little. However, they still come out stronger than ever in the end. This film is exciting to watch, and definitely held my interest the entire time.
The message of Book Club: The Next Chapter is a reminder to take risks and live life to the fullest because you never know when you might no longer have that opportunity. Be aware there is some light profanity.
I give Book Club: The Next Chapter 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in theaters May 12, 2023.
Book Club: The Next Chapter
By Julie S., KIDS FIRST!
What a delightful romp this is! The four life-long friends Viv, Diane, Sharon and Carol are played by superstars Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen, Diane Keaton and Mary Steenburgen run away with the show. We see how their friendship has persevered the ups and downs of life for decades, through marriage and divorce, child-bearing, work ups and downs… they support each other unconditionally.
In this sequel to the 2018 comedy Book Club, they are reunited after the pandemic and, after learning that Viv plans to marry, decide to take a bachelorette trip to Italy – a destination they’ve had on the horizon for some time.
The script is filled with silly jokes and passion for all that Italy has to offer – food, wine, landscapes and beautiful men.
The significant others of the four, played by Craig T. Nelson, Don Johnson, Giancarlo Giannini and Andy Garcia are equally entertaining. If this doesn’t make you want to pack your bags and head to Rome or Tuscany, then your spirit definitely needs a jump start.
I give book Club: the Next Chapter 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults, due to some mild profanity. It’s in theaters now, so drop what you’re doing and catch a matinee today. You’ll be glad you did.
I came away from watching this with an extra spring in my step and a sense of joie de vivre. The cast truly had a good time and it’s contagious.
