Were you a fan of "Beach Party," which starred Annette Funicello and Frankie Avalon? While I was not born yet, when it released back in 1963, it remained a popular summer teen flick for years to come. And, when I saw it as a tween I was hooked. Call me an old soul, but I loved watching such actors/actresses like Annette Funicello, James Dean, Rock Hudson, Elizabeth Taylor, and even Elvis in movies of their era. So, it was only fitting that I fell in love with this beach party film, and have gone through a handful of VHS tapes and DVDs watching it over and over again. :-)
But, the new generation of kids aren't fans of classic films like "Beach Party." Instead, they want something more hip and with the times, that star their favorite actors and actresses. Thanks to Disney, they now have their own beach party film that will surely become a favorite for years to come -- "Teen Beach Movie." Did you catch this song and dance beach party film when it aired for the first time the other day on Disney Channel? We had my tween nieces over for the day, and they had my DVR ready to record the show, even though they would be sitting through the premiere. They wanted to make sure they would be able to rewind and replay some of their favorite parts and songs from the movie. :-)
I wanted to see how this new film compared to my favorite, "Beach Party," so I ended up sitting with them to watch it. Even though my heart is with "Beach Party," I have to say that I was impressed with this new beach party film for tweens/teens. The songs and dances were catchy, and made you want to get up and move around. And, as a parent, I was happy to see Disney making this movie, as I knew it would not contain adult or inappropriate content. Instead, it was a wholesome movie the whole family could enjoy watching together, as well as one that tweens/teens would welcome and want to watch over and over again.
This movie was filmed in Puerto Rico, and was simply breathtaking. I have never been to Puerto Rico, but after seeing the beach and blue water, made me want to book a much needed vacation. :-) While this film starts some of today's popular teen actors and actresses, it also had a cast full of up and coming stars that really stole the show. :-)
The movie itself is supposed to be set in the 1960's, which gave it a fun feel, and made me think about "Beach Party" which was part of this era. In "Teen Beach Movie" Brady and McKenzie are the two main characters, and the ones the entire movie centers around. They end up getting swept away by waves and are swept into the movie "Wet Side Story". Yes, you read that right, "Wet" not "West". The plot deals with a surf and turf war between surfers and bikers, battling to take control over Big Momma's, a local hangout. Like I said, this teen beach party movie is filled with catchy songs and group dance numbers. And, come this weekend, you can tune into Disney Channel on Saturday July 27th at 8PM EST for the of Dance Along telecast, hosted by the cast of "Teen Beach Movie" This telecast will include dance tutorials, which will also be available for viewing at www.DisneyChannel.com. Last Sunday, my nieces tuned into the "Sing Along edition" and were able to learn the 9 hit songs from the movie word for word. Now, they are eagerly awaiting, as are so many other "Teen Beach Movie" fans this weekend's dance along telecast. Will your kids be tuning in?
If your kids saw this movie on Disney Channel, which it premiered on July 19th, and can't get enough of it, why not surprise them with the DVD, when it arrives in retailers and online stores nationwide on July 30th? You will be the coolest mom for sure! :-)
Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this DVD from the vendor in order to write up an honest review. The views shared are mine and mine alone.
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