Movie Review: American Dreamz

I didn't really expect to like this movie much. Hugh Grant is okay, but I'm not really into him. Don't care about Mandy Moore. Don't watch American Idols. However, this clever send-up of AI with it's funny, twisty subplots entertained me and even got a few out-loud laughs.

Hugh Grant does a fine job as "Tweedy", an egomaniacal producer/host/judge with more than a hint of Simon Cowell. Mandy Moore plays the smalltown girl who wants to make it big no matter what, and does it in a way more charming than you'd expect. Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans will recognize Adam Busch in a secondary role, but at least he gets to sing. I'd have to say the best acting in the movie is done by Dennis Quaid, as the confused and broken-down President of the US.

The story is much better than just a fictionalized version of our popular game show (yes, AI is a game show, NOT reality TV, but that's a discussion for another day). There are a few deeper moments, which might even lead you to ask some important questions.

I enjoyed this one and we will probably get it on sale previously viewed, when it's cheap enough. I don't need to run out and buy it, but I definitely will watch it again.

The DVD has a ton of extras, most of which I found boring.

Three and a half out of Five Stars.