KANSAS CITY, Mo —
1. VERONICA MARS (PG-13)
Warner Bros.
RUSS
Sometimes dubbed “Murder, She Wrote” for Millennials, “Veronica Mars” was a modestly successful TV series about a teenaged detective, that ran from 2004 to 2007. While it never did particularly well in the ratings, it had a rabid and loyal fan base that demanded a big-screen re-boot. Thanks to a Kickstarter campaign that raised cash from those steadfast fans, the movie became a reality.
SHAWN
And the back story is more interesting than the actual movie. The Kickstarter campaign for the film broke all kind of records. More than 91,000 backers contributed $5.7 million to get the movie made, series creator Rob Thomas had to raise $2 million. That goal was reached in under 12 hours. And the “Veronica Mars” movie project has the most backers in Kickstarter history.That’s serious love. But what about the actual movie? Well, that’s a different story.
RUSS
Kristen Bell is back as Veronica, now a budding lawyer, who reluctantly returns to her hometown to solve a murder mystery…just in time for her 10-year high school reunion. While the plot isn’t particularly interesting, the jokey dialogue and well defined characters help to make the movie a welcome reunion for fans of the show. While those who never saw a complete episode of the series…like me…should find something to enjoy, this is really a movie for the “marshmallows.”
SHAWN
Yes, they movie plays like a lost TV episode. But Kristen Bell is engaging. There is a snarkiness she delivers that is sort of fun to watch but the writing and story is so light it’s almost insulting even for the young base which is clearly the target audience. The extras include more on the record breaking Kickstarter campaign, a ‘Fun on the Set’ feature and deleted scenes.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags
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