“ADULTS…DON’T TOUCH THIS CHEESE”
Starring:Â Â Zachary Gordon, Chloe Grace Moretz, Rachael Harris, Steve Zahn, Grayson Russell and Robert Capron
Directed by: Thor Freudenthal
MPAA Rating: PG for some rude humor and language
Genre: Kids/Family. Adaptation
Release date: March 2010
By John Delia
With very little at the theatres these days for the pre-teen, along comes Diary of a Wimpy Kid just in time to fill the void. The fun little film about a middle school student trying to fit in addresses many of the problems of today’s youngsters while providing enjoyable entertainment. If you are a member of the target audience Wimpy Kid is a must see.
The film centers on Greg Heffley, the middle child of an ordinary family living in ‘our town’ USA. With his first day of middle school facing him, Greg’s brother plays pranks on the sibling that sets the tone of comedy and provides us with family personalities. But Greg is a high-spirited wise cracking kid himself so he easily wards off any brotherly stimulus and that of his parents as well.
Entering the middle school playing field, he sizes up his chances on becoming popular, one of which is avoiding budding up with his ‘immature’ best friend. Instead he plans schemes on becoming one of the big boys on campus. When early schemes go awry, Greg has to make dreaded decisions. So sets up a fun film of taking chances and making mistakes.
The acting here makes the film work and Zachary Gordon is up to snuff in the lead role of Greg. His young mannerisms, small stature and quick wit all add to the character and give it life. His support cast of are helpful and interesting enough to carry out the witty little story.
Frudenthal’s direction over the production keeps the story engaging and interesting. His characters show their emotions well and are believable. Using some great close-ups on the expressions of those who have been caught up in the everyday madness adds a creative touch to the film.
All that said, the film does pose a few problems, it becomes a little corny, drags a bit and gets predictable more than it should. So if you are not on a middle school playground, take heed and don’t touch this cheese.
The film is rated PG for some rude humor and language, but in today’s world what 5th-8th grader hasn’t already been exposed to it.
FINAL ANALYSIS:Â A good film for the youngsters, but adults may want to pass on this grade level. (3.5 of 5 Palm Trees)