You probably all know the story. It is about the formation of the musical group, The Four Seasons, focusing on lead singer Frankie Valli. We were fortunate enough to see the play in Las Vegas several years ago, and loved it. As for the movie, what can I say? It was terrific! (It also makes us want to see the play again.)
John Lloyd Young, who originated the role on Broadway and won a Tony Award for it, plays Valli in the movie. Great move by Eastwood to cast him in the movie as well.
Other recognizable actors include Vincent Piazza as Tommy DeVito. Piazza also plays gangster Lucky Luciano in the excellent "Boardwalk Empire". Fans of "The Sopranos" will also recognize Frankie's mother played by Kathleen Narducci (Charmaine Bucco) and a barber played by Steven Schirripa (Bobby Bacala).
A special shout out to Christopher Walken playing Jersey mob leader Gyp DeCarlo, a role that was expanded for the movie. He's great in it.
The music in the movie is terrific. Hey, it's the Four Seasons, so why wouldn't it be, and the story is great. Truth often is better than fiction.
And how about director Clint Eastwood? Who knew he could do musicals, and at age 84, no less? Great job.
I won't give anything away here, but the sequence that ends movie is fabulous, and be sure to stay for the closing credits.
Trust me, you don't want to miss "Jersey Boys".
Good review Bob. It wasn't a very fun musical, nor was it all that interesting of a drama. It was just a middling piece of film in general.
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