Ricki and the Flash
TriStar Pictures | Release Date: August 7, 2015
6.4
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 84 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
41
Mixed:
30
Negative:
13
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8
LamontRaymondAug 7, 2015
I had seen the trailer maybe 10 times and knew I'd see it, even if just to laugh at it. But it's sneaky good! Seems like it would be this forced, saccharine thing, but it doesn't pull punches, Meryl Streep is solid, and Rick Springfield isI had seen the trailer maybe 10 times and knew I'd see it, even if just to laugh at it. But it's sneaky good! Seems like it would be this forced, saccharine thing, but it doesn't pull punches, Meryl Streep is solid, and Rick Springfield is outSTANDing. He needs more big roles to go along with these supporting parts. This movie feels like it could have been the pilot for a Parenthood kind of series, but I think it makes some great choices.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
mickster072Aug 10, 2015
I think the movie was well written, I think Meryl Streep and Rick Springfield had a lot of chemistry. I thought Rick Springfield excelled in his role as did Meryl. I would give this movie 5 stars...
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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7
fantasyOct 8, 2015
It's a nice safe enjoyable movie with good music; nothing more. Meryl Streep is Mery Streep, one of the greatest actresses of this or any other generation. You will believe her in any role and this is no exception. She does an excellentIt's a nice safe enjoyable movie with good music; nothing more. Meryl Streep is Mery Streep, one of the greatest actresses of this or any other generation. You will believe her in any role and this is no exception. She does an excellent job and can even carry a tune. The supporting cast is very good too. Go see and enjoy.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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5
LynNov 27, 2015
Don't think you will see a reprise of Meryl Streep's rollicking musical performance that concludes "Postcards From the Edge." Streep is a conscientious actor even when she has to portray mediocrity. Her rough appearance (those ridiculousDon't think you will see a reprise of Meryl Streep's rollicking musical performance that concludes "Postcards From the Edge." Streep is a conscientious actor even when she has to portray mediocrity. Her rough appearance (those ridiculous braids!) and obvious study of guitar are pretty impressive, but it's still a cliched family dysfunction story that never offers any surprises. Then throw in some hackneyed old rock songs you never really needed to hear again. ("Woolly Bully" ???) Streep's daughter Mamie Gummer does a good job in a role that's also pretty cliched.I'll admit the feel-good denouement is pretty enjoyable, though.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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5
JacobJan 3, 2016
Ricki and the Flash is a nothing film. Despite the promise of conflict with a fractured family, Julie’s depression, and Ricki’s conflicting lifestyles the film doesn’t do any of that. Instead the story is a backdrop for tons of songs that padRicki and the Flash is a nothing film. Despite the promise of conflict with a fractured family, Julie’s depression, and Ricki’s conflicting lifestyles the film doesn’t do any of that. Instead the story is a backdrop for tons of songs that pad out the film. Tensions between family members are quickly resolved, conflict never escalates, Ricki lacks a fulcru, and everything after Ricki goes back to California is one just big slog until the end. If it wasn’t for Strypp there would be no desire to see this movie. Strypp makes the most of it but it isn’t enough.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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6
TVJerryAug 9, 2015
Meryl Streep plays a rocker who never made it big, but still gigs with her group. When her daughter (real-life daughter Mamie Gummer) hits a rough patch, mom returns home to her trio of children, who are bitter at her deserting them for herMeryl Streep plays a rocker who never made it big, but still gigs with her group. When her daughter (real-life daughter Mamie Gummer) hits a rough patch, mom returns home to her trio of children, who are bitter at her deserting them for her musical aspirations. The script by Diablo Cody is structurally trite with almost none of the snarky comedy that made her famous. Director Jonathan Demme has never been known for warm family stories, so this stretch is competent, but uninspired. Streep creates an interesting character and makes a pretty cool rock singer, but Gummer has some of the best moments. Without the A-list cast, this film would feel more at home on Lifetime.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
beingryanjudeAug 20, 2015
The best word to describe RICKI AND THE FLASH is “human.” It’s about chasing dreams (often more than one) and it’s about real life--family, money and what motivates us. As always, Meryl holds her own - delivering excellent vocal chops andThe best word to describe RICKI AND THE FLASH is “human.” It’s about chasing dreams (often more than one) and it’s about real life--family, money and what motivates us. As always, Meryl holds her own - delivering excellent vocal chops and another memorable character in Ricki.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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6
SpangleAug 27, 2015
Ricki and the Flash is far from being outstanding, but certainly serves a role in being above average entertainment and a showcase for some of the actors. Meryl Streep, in classic Streep fashion, is fantastic as Ricki/Linda, the wannabeRicki and the Flash is far from being outstanding, but certainly serves a role in being above average entertainment and a showcase for some of the actors. Meryl Streep, in classic Streep fashion, is fantastic as Ricki/Linda, the wannabe rockstar who tries to mend her fractured relationship with her children. Mamie Gummer is also great as her daughter and Rick Springfield does quite well as Ricki's bandmate and boyfriend. The film is quite well written by Diablo Cody and well directed by Jonathan Demme, though neither are fantastic, but get the job done here. The film is also quite funny and touching throughout, seamlessly transitioning between serious and comedic scenes with nary a hitch. Overall, Ricki and the Flash is an entertaining film that certainly is no Award winner, but you could do far worse going to the cinema here at the end of summer.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
BeeceeAug 10, 2015
This is a genuinely enjoyable movie. Meryl Streep did a great job as the rock singer, but they all seemed too good for a San Fernando Valley bar. It's great to see a romance featuring an attractive couple in their 60's. Meryl's daughterThis is a genuinely enjoyable movie. Meryl Streep did a great job as the rock singer, but they all seemed too good for a San Fernando Valley bar. It's great to see a romance featuring an attractive couple in their 60's. Meryl's daughter was adequate as her suicidal daughter. However, the wonderful Kevin Kline was totally wasted in an underwritten role as her ex. It probably won't win an Oscar, but it was fun.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
lukechristianscJan 2, 2016
Ricki and The Flash is dark, touching and realistic, the film's plot is predictable but writer Diablo Cody makes it unique and outshine it's predictable premise. Even though Meryl Streep isn't in an Oscar-winning film, even though in the pastRicki and The Flash is dark, touching and realistic, the film's plot is predictable but writer Diablo Cody makes it unique and outshine it's predictable premise. Even though Meryl Streep isn't in an Oscar-winning film, even though in the past she has been in a lot of successful films, it's alright and she is wondrous. Streep plays Ricki, she has been in a roller coaster, a one-time wife also mother of two, she left her family behind to do the thing she loves the most Rock n' roll stardom in California. Now the singer and guitarist must come home in Indiana to reconnect with her ex-husband (Kevin Kline) help her trouble suicidal daughter Julie (Mamie Gummer) because her husband Max (Gabriel Ebert) left her. Also reconnect with her two sons Joshua (Sebastian Stan) who is engaged and younger son Adam. Rick Springfield plays Rick's boyfriend and he is totally an undeveloped character and wasted a talented person, also Audra McDonald's character has no developed at all. Diablo Cody and director Jonathan Demme (Silence Of The Lambs) make this a unique and interesting also thought-provoking, without these two talented people this entire film would have been a cliche'd terribly made mess. Demme's musical numbers are amazing also has wonderful storytelling and him and Cody share a great package. 3/4… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
LucasFelipeSep 17, 2015
This tale about family comeback is really funny and entertaining. Demme's direction and Cody's script are efficient and know the points were they have to shoot. Streep's acting is what everyone expected: A big show.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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6
danippAug 30, 2015
It's fun, Streep gives an amazing performance and soundtrack is contagious. On the other hand, the script fails to give a major study in supporting characters, developed dialogues and a proper depth on a potential story. The idea was good butIt's fun, Streep gives an amazing performance and soundtrack is contagious. On the other hand, the script fails to give a major study in supporting characters, developed dialogues and a proper depth on a potential story. The idea was good but the film would have been much better if there was more talk then music. It's a nice entertainment if you search for a light movie though. But nothing more.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
movielover36Aug 10, 2015
I love Rock 'n Roll! This movie rocked it and I was blown away with the awesome musical performances of 'Ricki' and her band, the Flash! Meryl Streep, as always, was superb and gave her all in every musical number and her voice and guitarI love Rock 'n Roll! This movie rocked it and I was blown away with the awesome musical performances of 'Ricki' and her band, the Flash! Meryl Streep, as always, was superb and gave her all in every musical number and her voice and guitar playing were beyond great. Meryl's daughter, Mamie, was fantastic in her role as her daughter and played out the broken-hearted divorcee to a T. Rick Springfield, who played her boyfriend and bandmate, Greg, was great! From the guitar to his emotional moments with 'Ricki' he was spot on! Kevin Kline was his usual fantastic self and did a great job as 'Ricki's' ex-husband. Love him! Overall, I can't find any complaints with the movie, I would see it again and I'm counting the days to a DVD release.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
mikemacAug 25, 2015
this movie was alright but it felt like i should have waited until it came out on netflix, more of a tv movie than a big theater movie, the story was weak it just didn't do it for me for the price of the ticket
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
smiyamotNov 25, 2015
When do you stop chasing your dream? At what cost to those around you? Ricki (Meryl) knows it cost her plenty but she chooses to go her way. What isn't talked about in the movie is "what happened?" There are pictures of the family (3When do you stop chasing your dream? At what cost to those around you? Ricki (Meryl) knows it cost her plenty but she chooses to go her way. What isn't talked about in the movie is "what happened?" There are pictures of the family (3 kids) so we have to assume she had a midlife crisis and took off. To delve into the past is not the focus of this movie; seeing how this has affected her and the family is. This is a musical comedy (?), not a drama, so the entertainment is geared more to Ricki singing with her band. Is that really Meryl singing? I didn't think she was much of a singer in "Mama Mia" but she's pretty good here; guess they picked songs in her vocal range. I can't imagine any other actress portraying Ricki, the Iron Lady, Kramer, etc; no wonder she's nominated for an Oscar every year.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
ledaumasAug 7, 2015
It's hard to believe Meryl Streep and Rick Springfield were both around 65 when this was filmed. They both look real good for their age! Kevin Kline is slightly older and he's as dashing as ever. The movie had its moments when you understoodIt's hard to believe Meryl Streep and Rick Springfield were both around 65 when this was filmed. They both look real good for their age! Kevin Kline is slightly older and he's as dashing as ever. The movie had its moments when you understood and cared for the characters' viewpoints. Unfortunately, there was a missed opportunity to show a woman following her dream in a more sympathetic light. But the movie did make a point about men being able to follow their dreams at the cost of their relationship with their children, but a woman can't. I would have liked to see her staying up all night after coming home from a gig to fix her children's breakfast and send them off to school before going to bed., then spend time with the kids and put them to sleep before going to the next gig. It doesn't seem Meryl's character ever sacrificed herself for her children. I don't think I've liked any of Diablo stories after Juno. But she does create good characters who have witty lines.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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9
ZornbergAug 9, 2015
This movie was poignant, touching and absolutely realistic. I was several reviews prior to seeing the movie, and wonder whether those who left negative views actually saw the same movie as I did. This was an absolute masterpiece. TheThis movie was poignant, touching and absolutely realistic. I was several reviews prior to seeing the movie, and wonder whether those who left negative views actually saw the same movie as I did. This was an absolute masterpiece. The acting was wonderful by all involved and it was a tour d'force by Meryl Streep.

This movie is reminiscent of The Wrestler, in which the main character has to face previously poor life choices. The main difference is that while there is resentment by all involved, there is also a measure of forgiveness available, as there would be in real life. Who can object to that?… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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6
TheQuietGamerDec 14, 2015
Solid performances and decent drama make for a sweet, but ultimately familiar and predictable movie with an incomplete plot. The plot goes underdeveloped in favor of several musical performances. As a result there's isn't a real sense ofSolid performances and decent drama make for a sweet, but ultimately familiar and predictable movie with an incomplete plot. The plot goes underdeveloped in favor of several musical performances. As a result there's isn't a real sense of conclusion. A shame given how solid the drama elements are.

Yeah, it didn't break any new ground or deliver any elements we haven't seen before, but the strong performances keep you engaged in it. It's just a shame the movie just sort of stops trying to push the plot forward or set up a real conclusion in favor of just focusing on rock n' roll performances. At least these performances are solidly entertaining. Streep proves once again that she can sing pretty well, even if she does butcher a few songs.

The movie is a hodgepodge of a musical and a dysfunctional family drama that's filled with regret and touches of humor. However the two elements don't blend all that successfully here, and as a result we get an unfinished plot. I can't say that I wasn't entertained throughout it's running time. I even got a few laughs. However at the end of the movie I didn't feel satisfied. The conflicts in the story go more and more ignored as the film goes on. As a result there's no real conclusion to the events and the movie is a disappointment as a result. An entertaining disappointment, but a disappointment nonetheless.

I give the movie a 6.7/10… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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2
catzzzAug 19, 2015
This movie had way, way, WAY too much of Meryl Streep playing out her fantasy of being a rock star, singing (and playing? hard to tell) way too many nowhere rock songs. I kept checking my watch, wondering if they were really going to go allThis movie had way, way, WAY too much of Meryl Streep playing out her fantasy of being a rock star, singing (and playing? hard to tell) way too many nowhere rock songs. I kept checking my watch, wondering if they were really going to go all the way through yet another uninspiring tune -- and yes, they were.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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4
GreatMartinAug 7, 2015
When the best acting in a movie starring Meryl Streep is done by Rick Springfield you know the film “Ricki and the Flash” is in trouble. Unlike other scenes where either screen writer, Diablo Cody, and/or the director, Jonathan Demme, wereWhen the best acting in a movie starring Meryl Streep is done by Rick Springfield you know the film “Ricki and the Flash” is in trouble. Unlike other scenes where either screen writer, Diablo Cody, and/or the director, Jonathan Demme, were afraid to go one step further and make it interesting, the one between Streep and Springfield is emotionally moving.

Meryl Streep is a has-been who never was. She left behind three children to pursue her music career to become a rock star moving to California from Indiana and now many years later is called home by her ex, Pete played by Kevin Kline, because their daughter, Julie, played by Streep’s real life daughter Mamie Gummer, was left by her husband and he feels she needs her. Unbeknown to Ricki, who real name is Linda Brummel, her daughter also tried to commit suicide and is in therapy.

Pete has remarried and Maureen, Audra McDonald, along with Julie, live in a gated community McMansion. Ricki/Linda is broke, works during the day for a Whole Food-like business as a cashier and at night she and her 4 man Flash crew are the house band who play mainly to an older crowd with the bartender the youngest person and is devoted to Ricki.

With strong actors like Streep, Kline and McDonald the scenes between them lack the force that is needed to make them count. When McDonald and Streep face each other you expect sparks to fly but they just don’t. Kline and Streep have a mild high on pot---how 60s--scene that doesn’t go anywhere. The time between Ricki/Linda and her not completely accepting of her gay son, Adam, played by Nick Westrate or her and her about to be married son Josh, played by Sebastian Stan, who though holding affection for his mother doesn’t want to invite her to his wedding are so low keyed they seem to be in another movie.

he fact that Ricki/Linda is a Republican Obama hating conservative with a US flag ‘don’t tread on me’ tattoo on her back is put out there and then nothing is done with it. Too many times there are musical interludes where there should have been exploration of the dynamics between the movie’s characters. The Hollywood ‘happy ever after’ ending isn’t earned nor does it really make any sense.

With a $17 million budget and Streep’s name it will probably make money!… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
ThegodfathersonAug 9, 2015
Its decent, and there is not much more I can say about it. Ricki And The Flash features one of Meryl Streep's best performance in years. She shines a beautiful energy on screen and is very enjoyable to watch. The film slowly turns into aIts decent, and there is not much more I can say about it. Ricki And The Flash features one of Meryl Streep's best performance in years. She shines a beautiful energy on screen and is very enjoyable to watch. The film slowly turns into a boring melodrama towards its climax, but for what I saw, Ricki And The Flash was a decent, if not hilarious comedy with great acting and is directed well by Jonathan Demme.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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3
LowbrowCinemaAug 8, 2015
Yikes! RICKI AND THE FLASH is one contrived disaster. Can this really be directed by Jonathan Demme who gave us the masterpiece SILENCE OF THE LAMBS and an odd assortment prior to that? Has Meryl Streep become such a one note, annoying andYikes! RICKI AND THE FLASH is one contrived disaster. Can this really be directed by Jonathan Demme who gave us the masterpiece SILENCE OF THE LAMBS and an odd assortment prior to that? Has Meryl Streep become such a one note, annoying and cloy actress? Was JUNO a fluke for Diablo Cody? I say yes! All of these talented people have been coasting and resting on their laurels for many years. Demme is truly the worst of all not having made a decent film since SILENCE OF THE LAMBS almost 25 years ago. The less said about RICKI the better but I will add two saving graces--the lead character does not apologize for who she is and the club numbers are quite good. These are the only moments when Streep comes alive and feels like the actress we used to love so much. God, please save them from themselves!… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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1
GlorywarAug 8, 2015
I thought this movie was very boring, depressing and uninteresting. Meryl Streep didn't seem comfortable in her role. Considering her amazing talent, she was a disappointment. It was sad to witness as the only reason I went was becauseI thought this movie was very boring, depressing and uninteresting. Meryl Streep didn't seem comfortable in her role. Considering her amazing talent, she was a disappointment. It was sad to witness as the only reason I went was because of her playing in it. Cosmetic surgery did nothing to convince me she was of an age to be her children's mother.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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6
EpicLadySpongeApr 29, 2016
A "Been there, done that!" experience, Ricki and the Flash becomes predictable the next time you see this movie. The first time you may love, but you're going to regret that when you see it again.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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2
chipsfliixpixJan 24, 2016
The number of bad cover songs played during the movie makes you squirm in your seat, hoping they will end, but they don't. Full-length songs are a very reliable indication of a chic flick, as the director tries to create mood with music,The number of bad cover songs played during the movie makes you squirm in your seat, hoping they will end, but they don't. Full-length songs are a very reliable indication of a chic flick, as the director tries to create mood with music, but it doesn't work, and this one is among the best ( wort) examples. None of the acting was believable. If they got rid of the sex, it might make a good kid's movie.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
LeZeeJul 4, 2016
Facing what you had left behind to chase your dream.

This is so underrated. I mean it is not a great film, but surely does not deserve bashing. One of the rarest appearance on the screen for Meryl Streep. Totally transformed into a rockFacing what you had left behind to chase your dream.

This is so underrated. I mean it is not a great film, but surely does not deserve bashing. One of the rarest appearance on the screen for Meryl Streep. Totally transformed into a rock star and coming together with her real life daughter was another highlight. Impressive performances by others too. The Music was good with a combination of bit emotions and comedy.

It was the story of an aging rock star who failed to reach the heights. She once gave up on her family over the passion of music and now she returns after receiving a call that her daughter is in a trouble. So the tale focus on her struggling life, as well as because of her past she won't get a warm welcome. It's time to fix everything and as the years pass what changes brings is the remaining narration.

This is life. People are motivated to chase their dreams no matter whatever stands between them. This was a similar theme where a woman goes after what she wanted to be, but her family comes in between. And you know the success is not for everyone, so in that situation, how a person reacts to all the miscalculations in her life is what this film is about. It was actually a well told story, but the critics did not like it and given some lame excuses. To me it was a decent film, definitely not the worst, so all I'm saying is you should try it if you like music.

7/10… Expand
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6
mmh35Dec 2, 2016
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Meryl Streep is hands down one of the best actresses of all time. Unfortunately, the writing let's her and the rest of the cast down. I love that Rick Springfield is in the movie. I do feel however that there were too many musical numbers and not enough attention paid to Ricki's two sons. Yes, Ricki comes home to see her daughter who is suffering, but she ends up going to her son Josh's wedding and yet we know nothing about the dynamic of that relationship at all. Then there's her son Adam, who steals the dinner in a restaurant scene. I don't know who the actor is who plays Adam, but he's great in the two big scenes he has in the movie. Kevin Kline has always been a great underrated actor; and Audra McDonald is lovely in the film. I like Mamie Gummer, but I felt her first scene in the movie was completely over the top. She's definitely overacting there, but she calms down as the movie goes on, easing into her role. If they were going to do a wedding in the movie then couldn't they have cast an actress who by the end of the movie you don't easily forget right away? The intended bride, Emily, is so awkward you wonder why Josh is engaged to her. And speaking of Josh, Sebastian Stan is totally underutilized. Jonathan Demme is an accomplished director who should've known better. Did he not see Stan's turns on NBC's shortly lived show Kings and USA's Political Animals? Just watching YouTube clips of these two shows you can see how talented Stan is. Demme used Stan in a scene in Rachel Getting Married, so he should have done more with him, working with him for a second time. They really should have fleshed the characters of Josh and Adam out, giving each actor a great moment with Streep; and they also should have given Streep a nice scene with Emily, played by an actress who Meryl wouldn't completely overtake. It's a decent movie; but it should have been so much better, with the cast they had assembled.… Expand
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9
MaryDauAug 10, 2015
Ricki and the Flash is a good movie with amazing music, family drama, and a message. All the bar scenes concerts were recorded live and I feel like it worked well. I would love that to be my neighborhood bar. Ricki is deeply flawed andRicki and the Flash is a good movie with amazing music, family drama, and a message. All the bar scenes concerts were recorded live and I feel like it worked well. I would love that to be my neighborhood bar. Ricki is deeply flawed and unapologetic for her choices in life even if it hurt the people she loves. She does come through when her daughter has a crisis. Streep and Cline seemed to not mesh well, but maybe that is the point since their characters are no longer together. We see the life Ricki rejected, and Ricki seemed content with the one she has chosen. Greg, Ricki's lead guitarist is in love with her, but she seems to not think she is worthy of that love. The scenes between Springfield and Streep are wonderful. You should definitely see this movie.… Expand
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10
Skitty515Aug 10, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A great feel-good movie. Rick Springfield rocked the house. The film really hit home with my husband who has a daughter and and experienced what it was like to have a step parent come in and take over your role in your child's life. I will definitely see this movie again.… Expand
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9
KMRSFanAug 10, 2015
For me, Rick Springfield was the draw to this movie. He certainly did not disappoint. His portrayal of "Greg", the voice of reason in the film, was excellent. The movie itself was highly entertaining. I did leave shrugging my shouldersFor me, Rick Springfield was the draw to this movie. He certainly did not disappoint. His portrayal of "Greg", the voice of reason in the film, was excellent. The movie itself was highly entertaining. I did leave shrugging my shoulders ever so slightly because so much of the movie is given away in the multiple and varied trailers. There really weren't any surprises. But, I was entertained enough to see it twice....so far.… Expand
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10
lejjamieAug 10, 2015
I really enjoyed this movie. I was skeptical going in - but thought Meryl Streep fully "became" her character, as she always dosed think it is cool ( I heard on TV ) that all the playing was live. she learned fast, played well, sang out theI really enjoyed this movie. I was skeptical going in - but thought Meryl Streep fully "became" her character, as she always dosed think it is cool ( I heard on TV ) that all the playing was live. she learned fast, played well, sang out the part and I believed she was Ricki. Kevin Kline did well as the more stiff ex-husband with conflicting emotions. I didn't feel he was floundering, rather honestly portraying the character. Rick Springfield as Greg the boyfriend and guitarist in the band was great. Loved watching him play and didn't feel like I was watching the pop star Rick but bought into that he was Greg, the loving, caring, guitar guy who has his own back story of conflict apparently. He can show emotion just with his eyes. Mamie Gummer was great in her role as angry daughter. I have never seen her in anything before. They all must have had so much fun making this movie - I sure did watching. Thanks- saw it twice!… Expand
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6
mitchellkennedyAug 31, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Many viewers will find the title of this movie misleading. Flash is not a dog, and Rikki is no mongoose. This is the story of a female rock guitarist who decides to clean up her act.… Expand
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10
machoverSep 5, 2015
Nearly every review I've read of this movie reflects the unsophisticated, shallow, pessimistic self-involved self-inflation of Mr. and Mrs. Superficial Everman. This movie is a masterpiece. Putting aside the off-the-map acting of MerylNearly every review I've read of this movie reflects the unsophisticated, shallow, pessimistic self-involved self-inflation of Mr. and Mrs. Superficial Everman. This movie is a masterpiece. Putting aside the off-the-map acting of Meryl Streep, Rick Springfield, Kevin Kline and Maimie Gummer, the story line plunges into the depth of what it means to honor one's very soul, yet love one's family and the multitude of conflicts that inevitably arise from these fundamental human strivings. Your two-dimensional Everyman movie critics aren't equipped to handle the profundity of a movie like Ricki and the Flash. No doubt, Meryl Streep is acutely aware that acting is simply prancing around, acting as if one is someone else, and yet she knows she's communicating a depth of humanity, the culture at large rarely sees in other forums. Movie critics are superficial idiots. Go see Ricki and the Flash and decide for yourself. Ask yourself: What is this movie really about. After the movie, when the tears slow down, just don't tell anyone how you secretly hopped onto Google and searched for that musical instrument, or looked yet again at that art piece - or that class - or whatever it is for you - that touches your very soul, and cries out: I want Meaning AND Love in my life. Bravo for Ricki and The Flash. This was a profound, knockout OF A movie that the burn-out critics simply didn't "grok." Nothing less than a "10."… Expand
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4
JLuis_001Sep 7, 2017
The film promised but did not meet, the story is lost within the music instead of highlighting what is happening on the screen, is entertaining and distracting, but there are certain failures that are very hard ignore.

Meryl Streep is aThe film promised but did not meet, the story is lost within the music instead of highlighting what is happening on the screen, is entertaining and distracting, but there are certain failures that are very hard ignore.

Meryl Streep is a titanic actress, but this is a clear example that this genre is not her own, she had already failed with Mamma Mia!, I do not understand why she returned to work in a movie with music, her performance is not bad, but this film is irrelevant to her enormous and successful career.… Expand
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7
DawdlingPoetNov 27, 2021
I want to start by saying that this is primarily a film about a dysfunctional family, rather than a film about a rock star/musician. If you hope or expect this to be about a famously popular rock star and full of constant musical numbers,I want to start by saying that this is primarily a film about a dysfunctional family, rather than a film about a rock star/musician. If you hope or expect this to be about a famously popular rock star and full of constant musical numbers, then you'll be disappointed, although there are a fair few. However, its not an awful film - I felt I could relate to some aspects of numerous characters, of Ricki's family and I did enjoy most of the music.

I can't say im entirely convinced by Meryl Streeps vocal abilities (there was one moment in particular that made me cringe in between scenes but for the most part it sounded ok). Some scenes of this film are lighthearted, frivolous and fun but there are serious plot elements too, with her daughter having mental health issues and struggling following a divorce, hence it not being purely comedy or music focussed. I enjoyed most of the songs that Ricky played and found myself tapping my toes and thinking of the lyrics ahead of time, as I recognised a fair few songs ('Bad Romance' by Lady Gaga, 'Get The Party Started' by Pink and 'I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For' by U2) but, as I say, these musical performances are sparsely shown. Still, I suppose it works reasonably well in terms of it highlighting the happier moments.

It is a bit of a 'hodge podge' of a film but its not too bad - I certainly enjoyed it more than I disliked it. There are some cringe-y moments and if your prone to argue with siblings, then you'll probably be able to relate to it. I'd recommend this film, if you know what its about and don't expect it to be something it isn't. Its not by any means especially great but it is quite fun at times (sobering at others) and it has a nice nostalgic vibe/element to it, so in summary its certainly good. Its a feel good film for some of its duration but not entirely, which is perhaps a shame but I'm sure there are worse films out there, make of that what you will.… Expand
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