Critics be damned! I liked "Mamma Mia!" even better the second time around!

Rating: 10/10 (20 July 2008)

First, let's get the disclosures out of the way. The first album I ever bought was the "Xanadu" soundtrack, and the second one was "Super Trouper" by ABBA. Even at 11 years old, I loved the song "The Winner Takes It All" at wanted to own that record. Unfortunately, I discovered ABBA at a time when their career had peaked, the band had dissolved, and it was pretty uncool to like them.
Fast forward to 1999, and the stage version of "Mamma Mia!" opens in London. ABBA Gold is a certified worldwide best-seller, and the group was enjoying a resurgence, as well as receiving critical acclaim for their music which they had never really had before. I saw the play in London, and since then, I've seen it in Chicago, on Broadway after September 11 (a truly magical experience I will never forget!), in Los Angeles, and 6 times here in Las Vegas. Needless to say, I was thrilled to hear a movie version of the musical was being made! I had read many of the critics' reviews and was really disappointed at some of the venomous and harsh words some critics had to say. When I saw the movie opening night, I was afraid I was going to be let down.
I needn't have worried. The storyline of the movie follows fairly closely to the stage play, but more importantly, the spirit and heart of the play (and the songs) remain in tact. I did feel the movie was a bit rushed and some parts felt really cut down, but enjoyed it nonetheless.
Then I went to see it a second time, to watch it with a more critical eye, and I ended up enjoying the movie even more.
First the bad news: Four songs are deleted from the movie ("Under Attack," "One of Us," "The Name of the Game," and "Knowing Me, Knowing You") "Thank You for the Music" is sung over the end credits, and "I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do" is featured in a shortened version. Actually, with the exception losing of "Knowing Me, Knowing You" I think these changes suit the movie just fine. A lot has been made of Pierce Brosnan's singing voice. Okay, it isn't the greatest, but he doesn't sing any song by himself, and it's good that he has help. I actually think the new version of "When All Is Said and Done" is very touching. You do have to pay close attention to the dialog and every scene, because the editing of the movie is VERY fast paced. I wish some of the characters could have been fleshed out a bit more.
Now for the good stuff: Meryl Streep is magnificent. She can speak volumes with just an expression on her face. I loved her rendition of "Mamma Mia." In an instant, she goes from horrified (at finding her three former lovers in her goat house) to filled with glee at the prospect of seeing them again. Listen to the lyrics of the song "Mamma Mia," and you will appreciate how Meryl brings them to life. She also does fine with "Money, Money, Money" and "The Winner Takes It All" (still a showstopper!).
Amanda Seyfried is wonderful as Sophie, the bride-to-be. Her singing voice is very good, and she does a great job on "Honey, Honey" (especially the last line, which sets up the whole movie) and "Lay All Your Love On Me." Seyfried lights up the screen whenever she's on, and the chemistry between her and Meryl is beautiful. I have to admit that I welled up during "Slipping Through My Fingers." Julie Walters and Christine Baranski are hilarious. I especially loved Walters on "Take a Chance on Me." They steal practically every scene they're in.
The three possible dads, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, and Stellan Skarsgard are all fine in their respective roles. They really aren't given much to do, but they make the most of it. There is a very funny bit with Skarsgard on a boat in a towel. I won't say more than that. The audience roared with laughter both times I saw it.
The on-location scenery in Greece is absolutely gorgeous. The sun-lit seas and mountain retreats are breathtaking.
The crowning moment of the film, though, has to be the "Dancing Queen" number. The crowd erupted in applause both times I saw the movie, and how can you blame them? It is one of the most joyous moments ever captured on screen. How can you help but tap your toes and sing along? And I can't forget the grand finale. Stick around for the end credits. The movie mirrors the play in every way. Again, it is a crowd pleasing finale, met with cheers and laughter.
I realize the film isn't perfect; it's corny, campy, and not everyone is the greatest singer, but I'm giving it a 10 for the sheer joy that it brings and the performances of Streep and Seyfried. I can't wait to see it again!!!