Over the last three years, Miley Stewart and her pop-star alter-ego Hannah Montana have become a fascination amongst the world's younger generation. Sold out concerts, a hit television show and a clothing line have all been a result to the extreme success. Still, the show had still not done one thing: make a move to the big screen. That is, until now. Equipped with a list of new soon to be chart topers and a ninety minute story, Miley and Hannah have opted to step it up a bit in their first ever big screen feature-film extravaganza Hannah Montana: The Movie.
The film, which acts as a stand alone in relation to the TV series, follows Miley as she struggles to wrestle school, friends and her pop-star persona. As Hannah's popularity skyrockets, it becomes clear that she is going to have to choose between the two lives. So her father takes his daughter home to Crowley Corners, Tennessee for a dose of reality. There, she will experience the wilderness and comfort of a small town, remembering where all her dreams and ambitions started.
Featuring the entire cast from the television show, Hannah Montana: The Movie is a straight move to the big screen, and for fans of the show, it will be an unnoticed blessing. But unlike the show, Miley Stewart comprises of more than 80% of the screen time, preventing the 'both worlds' concept from ever getting off the ground. True the film is meant to be about self-discovery and the difficult choices that one must go through during their maturing phase, but the unnatural balance between characters is extremely noticeable, prompting many 'Hannah' fans to sit and wait for their diva to take to the screen.
Additionally, many of the show's supporting regulars are hardly featured in the film at all. Emily Osment gets the most of the group, while Jason Earles, Mitchel Musso and Moises Arias barely garner any screen time at all; a sad disappointment for those who prefer the comedic relief that the boys bring. But then again, room has to be made for the unexpected Tyra Banks shoe fighting cameo. And while the short segment was humorous, it did make me expect many other elegantly placed appearances; an expectation that was unfortunately never met.
Regardless, as the film proceeds to its final number, and the Hannah/Miley decision is made, one of the most absurd incidents take place amongst the citizens of Crowley Corners and their home-sung hero. I won't give it away, out of respect for the fans and eventual watchers, but I will say that it was a disappointing way to make sure that the TV show wasn't effected by the big screen debut.
In the end, Hannah Montana: The Movie isn't bad. In fact, to those who watch and enjoy the show, the film should feel just right. But to those who don't understand the world-wide phenomenon that is Hannah Montana, this film is definitely not for you. The acting, story and foreseen conclusion are extremely 'Disney,' proving that this time around, the movie really is just for the kids.
