BOOK CLUB: THE NEXT CHAPTER is not for everyone. It is truly a “chic flick.” It features four beloved actresses, three handsome men, and a stunning, breathtaking Italy. It is not deep. It is humorous, snappy, fast-talking, and predictable.
Jane Fonda, Diane Keaton, Candace Bergen, and Mary Steenburgen are who and why anyone would want to see this film. They are the heart and soul of the two BOOK CLUB movies. Their dialogues are rich and warm with friendship and love for one another. It is all about not being invisible as senior citizens. The idea is to live and not be victims. Don’t be silenced. “Do something” because “Life is what you make of it.” Sound familiar? It is the same story most feel as they age. BOOK CLUB showcases these themes in Rome, Venice, and Tuscany, with buckets of money, dough, wine, and fabulous clothes. Does it get old? No, but only if you watch with an honest perspective. (And moments with Don Johnson and Andy Garcia help immensely.)
Here’s some “tough love” for BOOK CLUB: THE NEXT CHAPTER… editing is your friend too. I love pausing for effect, but it got old quickly. I saw this film with three other women of a certain age. We all agreed. And now we all want to travel to Italy together. It is playing in theaters everywhere.
