Three and a half stars (out of four)
This film surprisingly exceeds what one would expect from it. The casting was well done. The film covers the "been-done-before" body switch in a fresh and exciting way.
Jamie Lee Curtis (Tess) perfectly captures the teenage mannerisms. Lindsay Lohan (Anna) also does well with the use of adult dialects. Of course, the body switch between the uptight mother and dramatic daughter makes for plenty of amusing situations.
It's hard for the two to understand each other, which most teens including me can relate to. Through the switch they grow to understand what the other is going through. Sometimes I feel that if my mother were in my shoes she could understand my point of view on a better level.
This film is a perfect pick for the family to go see. It's fast moving and goes straight to the moviegoer's heart.
- Hannah Stepenoff, high school student
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Three stars (out of four)
If you woke up one day in your daughter's body, would you go to her high school and take her exams for her? I have to admit it seems like cheating to me. The mother and daughter in this movie both behave badly in each other's skins. Anna, the daughter, uses credit cards to give herself (as Mom) a makeover. (Given the opportunity, I wonder how Hannah would rearrange me!) Mom (as Anna) erases the answers on another student's test. The other student is a malicious ex-friend, but I still wouldn't do that.
This is a funny movie, full of double takes, goofy mix-ups, and physical comedy. Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan both do a great job of playing an uptight superwoman and a rebellious teen. The men in their lives, especially Grandpa and little brother Harry, are incredibly sensitive and amusing, and the message is all about love.
- Bonnie Stepenoff, university professor
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Three stars (out of four)
A family comedy is what I'd term "Freaky Friday." Take the whole family. They'll love it. Why? The film rates up near "Animal House" in entertainment and fun for all.
This is a remake of a 27-year-old film by Disney. Dr. Coleman (Jamie Lee Curtis) switches bodies with daughter Anna (Lindsay Lohan) due to eating Chinese fortune cookies.
Switching roles shows how it feels to be in someone else's shoes. Each character sees the good points in the other.
Anna plays in an all-girl garage band that sounds like Nirvana. Jake, Anna's boyfriend, reminds you of Kurt Cobain. Coleman is supposed to be getting married. The wedding versus band auditions at the House of Blues make for hoots of fun.
Add Grandpa, little brother and English teacher Mr. Bates and you have "Freaky Friday," a movie that is pure entertainment.
- Robert Aubuchon, retiree
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