A Plumm Summer (2008)

It's not great by any means, but it's a pretty good movie that didn't leave me filled with regret for investing time in it.

Exactly the movie you think it is, but not the movie you want it to be.

It’s fine. It's literally the definition of a fine movie. You’ve seen it before, you know every beat and outcome before the characters even do. Only question is how much escapism you’re looking for.

The movie's not perfect, but it sticks the landing of its message. It was engaging - thrilling at times - and I personally thought it was a great time.

A Plumm Summer is a sweet little indie film pulled off perfectly. There are some big names in the supporting cast who are all note-perfect, most notably Peter Scolari and Henry Winkler. Billy Baldwin also puts in a very good turn for the first time in quite a while. Newcomers Chris Massoglia and Owen Pearce couldn't be any cuter and more adorable as the brothers/stars of the film. Massoglia (credited as "Chris J. Kelly") is particularly outstanding considering it's his first jump from TV to film - you really like him and feel for his character. To me, A Plumm Summer hearkens back to 6:00 on Sunday when the family would gather around the TV with dinners in hand to watch the Wonderful World of Disney's weekly fare. This is like that... but better quality than most of what Walt served up. There's some real heart to this effort thanks to genuine drama that hits a message without becoming overwrought with itself. The mystery element to the story is none too deep or complex, but it doesn't need to be; it's just the vehicle that introduces some very likable characters and lets us get to know them. There's a laugh or two along the way and everything is generally light-hearted and fun. It's a good family film that entertains as well as confronts a serious note or two along the way. It won't change the landscape of movie-making, but it's awfully nice to see that somebody will still make a sweet, innocent film like this. Kudos to the folks responsible for doing that. A very endearing, charming, family film worth anyone's time.

Elliott Plumm (Chris Masoglia) and his younger brother, Rocky (Owen Pearce) live in knock-out gorgeous Montana in the early sixties. Their father, Mick (William Baldwin) drinks too much and never seems to have time for Elliott, seeming to prefer kindergartner Rocky. Mother Roxie (Laura Guerrero) is an attentive mother but she is getting fed up with Mick and his antics. More importantly, Elliott is shy and resents having to share a room with his little brother, even going so far as to dividing their room with a marker on the floor. Only Rocky is carefree, for he is young and enamored with the local television star-magician (Henry Winkler) and his darling frog marionette Froggy-Do. Changes occur. First, the Plumms get new neighbors, a single father and his daughter, who casts her eye on Elliott. Then, someone actually frog-naps Froggy-Do and the show can't go on, as the magic man won't go solo without his beloved sidekick. Can Elliott find Froggy-Do for the town and his brother Rocky? This film, set in knockout gorgeous Montana, has a light-hearted cover and a cute, cute puppet. But, beneath the story are serious issues, like divorce, alcoholism, and mental instability. So, in my view, not for every family. That said, the cast, costumes, script, direction, and all other amenities are quite fine. If you are searching for a family flick that might get the loved ones into an actual conversation, this would be one to try. But, if you are seeking a film that is sweetness and light, look for Beethoven's Big Break or, truly, any of the Beethoven movies.

My, oh my, never am I so pleasantly surprised to watch this movie! The title is unassuming, and because there is lack of publicity about this movie in my country (it wasn't shown in the local cinemas), I thought this is one of those straight to DVDs which usually meant that the movie is not good.My, oh my, this movie rocks! Based on true story, the Elliot brothers helped the FBI to capture the person who did the frognapping. Funny moments ensued as the brothers, and the inefficient FBIs worked their way to nab the suspect.Both the Elliot brothers, and the girl who plays as the new girl in town are very real. They have the chemistry that one might think that they are already in the industry for a long time.The performance of Elliot and her small brother are wonderful, they quarrel and made remarks with each other, but when others disturbed one of them, the other stand up and defended.This movie is for everyone, young and old. It has tonnes of moral values and it is has that feel-good factor that many films churned out of Hollywood seems to lack.In a nutshell, I recommend this movie anytime. Just sit back, relax, and have some chips with it.

A sweet story beautifully shot in Montana. This film is well cast and it's fun to watch the great comedic timing between two of the 'comedy group' trained actors. They were a highlight! A Plumm Summer is "Family Friendly" and promises to appeal to both the kids and parents alike. No reason to cover little eyes or plug little ears. A great message without any holy roller aspects. With all that's going on in today's world A Plumm Summer was a refreshing respite and time well spent. Make plans to go see this movie this weekend. I know you'll enjoy it, bring the kids, if you don't have kids...bring the neighbor's kids. You'll be glad you did.