In the movie version of Jersey Boys (2014), Vincent Piazza does deft work as Tommy DeVito, an obnoxious member of the Four Seasons pop group.  The part is an Italian stereotype, though, which is hardly surprising for a film that has zero character exploration.

Here and there Clint Eastwood’s semi-musical is as likable as the Village Voice critic says it is, but it is also insipid.  A nun takes a swallow of wine and burps.  Every girl either sashays or makes a fool of herself, often while listening to the Four Seasons.  The movie is obtuse.

Winning performances come from Christopher Walken and Renee Marino (who plays Frankie Valli’s wife).  Also from John Lloyd Young (Valli)—in his singing.  It was his falsettos that were in the Broadway show.

Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood (Photo credit: Siebbi)