FILM REVIEW: RICKI & THE FLASH (12A)

Meryl Streep goes from Iron Lady to Iron Maiden to save the day!

Streep always brings out the best in most of her movies and this is a classic example of how a film would have been rather mediocre had it not been for the three-time Academy Award winner working her magic.

In this uplifting comedy, the popular actress goes from Iron Lady to Iron Maiden as Ricki – a quirky singer/guitarist who gave up everything for stardom, including her family. One day, Ricki gets a call from her ex-husband, Pete (Kevin Kline), who tells her that their daughter Julie (Mamie Gummer, Streep’s daughter in real life), is on the verge of a divorce and a breakdown. Ricki returns to her family to try to help and make amends – but is it too little too late?

It’s always fun seeing Meryl Streep letting her hair down. We’ve seen her play numerous powerful women in the past – from Prime Minister to a magazine editor – but (in my opinion) she shines best when she’s being a little fun. Much like I was when watching her in Mamma Mia! I was grinning from ear-to-ear.

Considering that Oscar-winning director Jonathan Demme (The Silence of the Lambs) and Academy Award winning screenwriter Diablo Cody were involved in this movie (not to mention the acting talent) this unfortunately wasn’t the game-changing flick I’d hoped for – nor is it one that will stick in your mind long past closing credits.

But, this is an enjoyable watch nonetheless – particularly for those looking for something a little different than those explosive blockbusters that have dominated the screens these past few months.

See Ricki and the Flash at Showcase Cinema, Peterborough. Visit www.showcasecinemas.co.uk for the latest up-to-date show times. You can also join the chat on Twitter @showcasecinemas or on Facebook by searching for ‘Showcase Cinemas UK’

Mikey Clarke