Amiable Pop Musical, Short on Story, Big on Cheer

Rating: 6/10 (19 May 2018)

Mamma Mia!, the film adaptation of the popular stage musical, packs no surprises, no new insights, no real emotions, but it never had to. Like the popular Broadway play, Mamma Mia! is a sweet, summery tonic of wholesome good cheer. The kind of which that women and families will drink up, even if the nutritional content is low.
The plot, (you know, that thing in between the ABBA music) is about bride-to-be Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) and her quest to discover the identity of her real father by inviting the three possible candidates to her mother's beautiful Greek villa, in hopes that she will "just know". Things aren't so simple in practice however, as Donna (Meryl Streep) rekindles flames she thought were lost forever. It's not a horrible idea for a story, it's not a great idea, but it's cute. The three suitors, played by Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, and Stellan Skarsgård, are instantly appealing. Put a less likable actor in any of their shoes and you would have yourself a far less tolerable film.
Most of the leads are charming, with Pierce Brosnan and Meryl Streep standing out. One could criticize both their singing voices, if one were so inclined, but I enjoyed Streep's airy vocals and Brosnan's deep, hard rock style. The ABBA songs are hit or miss, with some lethargic early songs, and a few vivacious tunes to close the film. The music is what you would expect. Every musical has some duds, but Mamma Mia! has enough good stuff to justify them. The film pulls a nice balancing act when it comes to the songs, not too many, (ABBA overkill never fully sets in), and the best stuff is saved for last. Pretty good formula, if you ask me.
I'm not the best audience for Mamma Mia! I've never seen the play, I don't particularly like ABBA, and I'm not a woman. For those who fit into any of those categories, Mamma Mia! will be a joy. I wasn't impressed with some of the formulaic chick flick fluff, but beyond that, I liked Mamma Mia! It's what your grandmother might call a "nice" picture. Wholesome, charming, and sugary sweet.
66/100