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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User scoreBy dateMost helpful
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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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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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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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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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
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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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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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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