On CLIPS In April, 2010
THE LAST SONG

An estranged father (Greg Kinnear) reconnects with his daughter (Miley Cyrus) in this film version of the Nicholas Sparks book.

TRIVIA: Nicholas Sparks provided what "first" for this movie?

Rebellious teenager Ronnie Miller (Miley Cyrus) and her young brother Jonah (Bobby Coleman) are sent to a Southern beach town to spend the summer with their estranged father Steve (Greg Kinnear). Family bonding occurs, secrets are revealed and Ronnie discovers first love with local boy Will Blakelee (Liam Hemsworth). Based on a novel by Nicholas Sparks, "The Last Song" is an interesting heartbreaker that will appeal mostly to a female audience. This is the best screen adaptation of a Sparks novel since "The Notebook". Director Julie Anne Robinson and a strong cast make this weeper believable. There is good father/daughter chemistry between Kinnear, who delivers one of his best performances, and Miley Cyrus. Australian newcomer Liam Hemsworth is on his way to becoming the next teen heartthrob. Young Bobby Coleman is a scene-stealer as the wise-beyond-his-years brother who helps bring his family together. Getting too little screen time is Kelly Preston as the siblings' mother Kim. This film's biggest drawback is the overuse of what passes for music videos - bridging the gaps between plot elements. Most of these songs do not feature the vocal Ms. Cyrus. But Miley does display a talent for dramatic acting. "The Last Song" proves that she can carry a tune and a movie.