Zac Efron proved that he could exist outside the Disney universe with 2007’s Hairspray, and in 17 Again, he takes one step closer to genuine stardom. Scenes of Efron on the basketball court may remind viewers of Troy Bolton, but the actor displays both a strong sense of comic timing and a surprising dramatic range. Plus, he has a magnetic presence onscreen.
In the film, Efron plays the 17-year-old version of Mike O’Donnell, a basketball star who gives up his college hoop dreams to marry his pregnant girlfriend. Adult Mike, played by Matthew Perry, is dissatisfied with his life, so a bearded “spirit guide” (Brian Doyle-Murray) gives him the chance to do it all over again by returning him to his 17-year-old state.
What’s Old is New Again
If the plot of 17 Again sounds familiar, that’s probably because you’ve seen something like it before. In addition to the obvious similarities to Big and 13 Going on 30, the film also draws from Back to the Future (inappropriate advances from unknowing family member) and It’s a Wonderful Life (Mike’s transformation begins on a bridge).
And few audience members will be shocked when Mike learns some valuable lessons about himself and his relationship with his family on his way toward an ending that’s easy to predict. But, although it may not surprise you, 17 Again is sure to make you smile, and the movie does manage to present some new twists and funny moments.
Efron and Lennon Steal the Show
Several sequences provide the film with sparks of originality — and big laughs. Efron shines when he humiliates a bully with a psychiatric analysis and mad basketball skills. He’s also funny and convincing in several scenes when the dad in him shines through, especially a lecture on saving sex for love during health class.
Some of the film’s best moments, however, come not from Efron but from Thomas Lennon (Reno 911!), who plays Ned, Mike’s best friend and pretend dad. Ned is a very rich nerd, and his home provides a plethora of dork-approved weapons for a show-stopping battle between Lennon and Efron. As Ned attempts to woo the high school principal (The Office’s Melora Hardin) through a series of outlandish gestures, he steals every scene.
Although Ned is certainly a weirdo, his romantic advances are not nearly as disturbing as some of the interactions between young Mike and his family. It’s sweet that he’s trying to win back his wife (Leslie Mann), but any rational outsider who observed their interactions would be alarmed. And the advances of Mike’s daughter (Michelle Trachtenberg) toward the younger version of her dad quickly cross the line from funny to creepy.
Despite its flaws, however, 17 Again is still an enjoyable film that showcases Efron and Lennon, who, along with the lovely Mann, should be bigger stars than they are. The plot may feel familiar, but there’s enough new material and laughs to make this movie worth your while, whether you’re 17 or just wish you were.
