Walking on Sunshine (2014)

Taylor (Arterton) fell in love in Puglia, Italy, but left her love to go college.  Three years later she returns to Puglia to visit her free-spirit sister, Maddie (Scholey).  Maddie has a surprise: she's getting married in a few days, after a whirlwind romance.  The groom, Raf (Berruti), is Taylor's old beau and love of her life.  Taylor and Raf are shocked by the revelation, but agree to keep it a secret from Maddie.

Things are further complicated by the appearance of Maddie's ex, Doug (Wise), who she still loves.  With their friends, Lil (Brand), Elena (Lewis), Mikey (Kirrane), and Enriceo (Corso) stuck in the middle, can both sisters get what they want?

This jukebox musical breathes new life into popular songs from the 1980s with a lush setting.  I've been interested in this film since I poster and trailer.  I love musicals and this looked like a blast.

The Good:

The soundtrack is filled with hits from the 1980's, all sung with gusto.  The cast, other than Leona Lewis, are not professional singers, and most don't have dance training, but it works.  The title song, "Walking on Sunshine" is probably the best production, takes place at a tomato festival and you can tell that everyone is having a blast.

The Bad:

The story is rough.  And most of the side characters are not fully formed, just focused on a single trait.  The actors are fine, but don't have much to work with.

Other Comments:

-They take inspiration from the 80's music for the hen and stag parties.  For the hen party, they are dressed as classic Madonna, Tina Turner, and Whitney Houston.  The stag party is Adam Ant, George Michael, and Meat Loaf.

-The setting is gorgeous and everything looks good, even the characters in their worst moments.

-This is Lewis' acting debut... she's fine, but not great.

-Greg Wise is known for playing charming scoundrels, and is entertaining here.

-Many critics compare the film to Mamma Mia... it's an obvious comparison, but unnecessary.  It's an obvious comparison, but unnecessary and a disservice to both films.

-It has an obvious conclusion, but it does take a few little turns (not everyone is coupled up at the end).

-It is a mindless summer flick with a great soundtrack.  If you take it as such, it's an enjoyable ride with some laughs and heartache.  I fully enjoyed the ride.

Walking on Sunshine (2014) 97 minutes

Director: Max Giwa & Dania Pasquini

Starring: Annabel Scholey as Maddie

Hannah Arterton as Taylor

Giulio Berruti as Raf

Greg Wise as Doug

Katy Brand as Lil

Leona Lewis as Elena

Danny Kirrane as Mikey

Giulio Corso as Enrico

Tiziana Schiavarelli as Tiziana