Being introduced into a new kind of culture after joining theatre has definitely had a large influence on my life, including my movie choices.

After a group traveled to New York and saw Jersey Boys, the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, on Broadway and they raved about it, I decided to give it a shot. Of course, not being anywhere close to Broadway, I had to find an alternative – AT&T On Demand.

First of all, I had no idea what Jersey Boys was about, being the uncultured teenager that I am. Once I began watching it, though, I wasn’t disappointed.

The movie adaptation of the Broadway show directed by Clint Eastwood (2014) follows the story of Frankie Valli (John Lloyd Young), in the beginning Frankie Castelluccio, and his journey through the development and disbandment of The Four Seasons, finally ending with their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The movie opens with Frankie, Tommy (Vincent Piazza), and Don DeCarlo (Christopher Walken) in a barber shop. The audience hears Frankie singing under his breath, and immediately Don DeCarlo praises him. We then see Frankie getting in and out of trouble with Tommy, and are constantly reminded about the toughness of growing up in the neighborhood with the Mob behind you every step of the way. After introducing the other two members of the band, Nick (Michael Lomenda) and Bob (Erich Bergen), the boys begin to skyrocket in popularity, fame and a slight fortune coming to them. Then the pressures of stardom fall upon Tommy, and Frankie and the others have to pick up the slack.

The music and the talent are simply wonderful, and the cinematography isn’t half bad either. Young’s voice is surprisingly similar to Valli’s, although it could never be exact as the original, but it does demonstrate the unique voice that was custom to Valli.

The actors do a good job of portraying each character, along with singing and dancing. The period clothing and slang were done well, too. Humor was another thing that was not lacking.

Unfortunately, this movie fell short in only a few areas. It lacked in the emotional aspect that most people would like to see. Instead, it was a pretty average climb to the climax, which felt more like a plateau than anything. Also, Lomenda’s performance felt a bit forced, good, but forced.

With courtesy to the history, culture, and likeness that Young had to Valli’s legendary and unforgettable voice, this movie earns 7.5 stars out of 10.