“Mamma Mia! -- the best musical in years

With the winter holidays here, nothing is quite as upbeat and enjoyable as a movie that can expertly blend comedy and music. “Mamma Mia” has an appeal broader than the more serious “Moulin Rouge” and may surprise the most reluctant viewer. Meryl Streep creates another strong persona as the mother of a bride-to-be and owner of a bed and breakfast in Greece. While her role does not have the gravitas of some prior performances, it does allow for joy, humor and occasional sorrow. Her male and female co-stars are a “who’s who” of accomplished thespians looking to prove themselves as capable singers. This cast succeeds in making a memorable musical out of songs from the 1970s pop group ABBA.

Based upon the theatrical production, “Mamma Mia!” was brought to the big screen by two capable women - director Phyllida Lloyd and screenwriter Catherine Johnson. They succeed in creating a worthy translation with enjoyable musical numbers and a simple yet compelling plot. Sophie is getting married soon but she will not have a father to walk her down the aisle - because she doesn’t know who her father is. She sets a plan in motion after reading her mother’s diary, inviting the three potential fathers to her wedding. She hopes that once she meets them, it will be clear who her father is and a relationship can begin. Her mother, Donna (Streep) knows nothing of the plan and is surprised when three of her former suitors show up on her doorstep.

The film is driven by its several catchy musical interludes. You will find yourself eagerly anticipating the next well choreographed number. So much can be expressed in such a short amount of time through a song. Lloyd and her accomplished actors make the most of every opportunity, with upbeat and amusing tunes along with slower more heartfelt ones. The great cast includes Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Julie Walters (“Harry Potter“ series), and Stellan Skarsgard (“Pirates of the Caribbean” series) who all give charming and humorous performances. I suggest giving this film a chance on DVD even if you don’t think you’ll like it. “Mamma Mia!” is by far the best musical in a few years.

Rated PG-13 for some sex related comments.