Hilarious.
That’s my word for the rollicking new film starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Rita Moreno, and Sally Field. Oh, yeah. Put them together and you know what you have: fun.
Based on a true story, these older pals are diehard Tom Brady fans, and when they head to see him play in the 2017 Superbowl, the adventures begin. This light-hearted flick doesn’t omit serious themes, though. Cancer and issues like loneliness have time in the spotlight, too. The heart-to-hearts whispered at night or during other romps are warm and tender.
Tom Brady dolls—and the real McCoy—show up and offer life lessons until the moment Brady himself requires a little coaching from his new pals. Costars add to the fun such as Harry Hamlin from the long-running drama, L.A. Law (1986-94).
Of the leading ladies, Lily Tomlin has had the shortest career of the four. Hers began with standup in 1965. Although Sally Field is the youngest, she has the third-longest career. She started in 1962. And then there’s Jane Fonda—with her famous Hollywood lineage from dad Henry Fonda. Her performing began in 1959. Moreno, however, has the longest record of being in the business. She started at age 11 in 1943 and boasts winning the title of EGOT: Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony winner.
As a non-football fan, the movie taught me the beautiful human drama in the sport. Adult themes. (In theaters, Paramount)
About the Author
Cynthia Beach is the author of the novel The Surface of Water and Creative Juices for Writers. She is a longtime English professor at Cornerstone University and cofounder of Scriptoria: An Interfaith Writing Workshop with Gary Schmidt (scriptoriaworkshop.org). Visit her at cynthiabeach.com.