Posts Tagged by family

The wild imagination and crazy antics of one of the most beloved characters in children’s literature come to life on the big screen in Ramona and Beezus. Based on the Beverly Cleary’s book series (including favorites like Beezus and Ramona, Ramona the Pest, Ramona the Great, and Ramona the Brave), this family film appeals to old Cleary fans – the series began in the 1950s – and introduces the characters to a whole new set of fans from the younger generation.

The adorable and hilarious newcomer, Joey King, stars as Ramona Quimby. Her big sister, Beatrice “Beezus” Quimby, is played by multi-talented teen star, Selena Gomez (star of Disney Channel’s Wizards of Waverly Place). Also appearing in the movie are John Corbett (My Big Fat Greek Wedding) as Robert Quimby (the girls’ father), Bridget Moynahan (I, Robot) as Dorothy Quimby (the girls’ mother), Ginnifer Goodwin (Walk the Line) as Aunt Bea, Josh Duhamel (Las Vegas and Transformers) as Henry Huggin’s Uncle Hobart, Sandra Oh (Grey’s Anatomy) as Mrs. Meacham, and Hutch Dano (Disney’s Zeke and Luther) as Henry Huggins.

Ramona and Beezus is a compilation of plots from several of the books in the Ramona series, leaning heavily on Ramona and Her Father, Ramona Forever, Ramona and Her Mother, Ramona Quimby, Age 8 and Ramona’s World. While many of the scenes focus on the amusing situations Ramona finds herself in, one main theme resonates above all others in this film: positive family relationships. Although the Quimby family certainly has its shares of trials and frustrations – such as job loss, sibling rivalry, death of a pet, and financial stresses – the importance of family replays throughout in the supportive relationship Ramona shares with her Aunt Bea, the meaningful “daddy time” spent with her father, the way her mother lovingly allows Ramona to explore who she is, and the tender bonding moments experienced between the sisters.

This film is guaranteed to make you laugh, cry, and walk out with a renewed outlook on family. With a G-rating, tons of hilarity, and first-class performances from the cast, kids and parents of all ages will enjoy this one!

Note from Jo: I had the privilege to attend – and take my kids to – a prescreening of this movie a few weeks ago. I have been a huge fan of all Beverly Cleary’s books since I first starting reading on my own. I was a little nervous of how the movie would compare to those books in my mind. Let’s just say, I was pleasantly surprised. Not every single part of the movie was the same (did you seriously think it would be?), but it stays pretty true to the original stories. My kids (4 1/2 and 9 years old) and I truly enjoyed this film, and it was nice to watch a movie with my girls that I loved as much as they did! My favorite scene: I have two. The hilarious water scene and the touching bedtime scene between sisters. That’s all I’m saying. You’ll have to check out the movie to find out more.

Oh, and I also had the honor to speak with both of the leading actresses (Joey King and Selena Gomez). I was impressed by these young ladies!

Disclaimer: This reviewer received free admittance to a press prescreening of Ramona and Beezus in exchange for an honest review of the film.