Jamie Kelly, played by Emily Alyn Lind, struggles with the usual adolescent issues such as fitting in, boys, grades, and popularity. However, the film presents them in a fresh and entertaining way. The story is set in a middle school that resembles an amusement park, and Jamie’s classmates are like rollercoaster rides – unpredictable and thrilling. It is an environment that tests Jamie’s character and strengthens her friendships.
Throughout the film, Jamie writes in her diary, addressed to her imaginary friend, Isabella. She documents her frustrations, hopes, dreams, and schemes. Her diary entries are sprinkled with doodles and drawings that bring her vivid imagination to life.
One of the significant conflicts in the film is the battle for the “Coolest Girl in the World” title. Jamie is confronted by the snobbish and manipulative Angeline (played by Mary-Charles Jones), who is a continuous source of frustration and envy for Jamie. Angeline has everything Jamie wants, from the perfect hair to the hot boyfriend, and she seems to effortlessly climb the social ladder. However, Jamie learns that Angeline’s life is not as perfect as it seems, and their rivalry leads to unexpected twists and turns.
Another memorable aspect of the film is the budding romance between Jamie and Hudson (played by Sterling Griffith). Hudson is the new kid in school, and he captures Jamie’s heart with his quirky personality and charm. Jamie’s crush on Hudson is a delightful teenage romance that is innocent and heartwarming.
Dear Dumb Diary is an excellent film for families, especially those with preteen children. It has a wholesome and relatable storyline that tackles the challenges of growing up from a humorous and positive perspective. It emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and valuing friendships. It also sheds light on the issue of bullying, and how standing up to it can change one’s life for the better.
The film’s production design is visually impressive, bringing to life the colorful and imaginative world of Jamie’s middle school. The costumes are quirky, and the soundtrack is energetic, matching the film’s upbeat tone. The casting is also noteworthy, as the actors capture the essence of their characters brilliantly.
Overall, Dear Dumb Diary is a charming film that will make audiences laugh and cheer. It is a refreshingly positive take on the challenges of adolescence, and it has a lighthearted message that will resonate with viewers. It is a film that will inspire young audiences to be true to themselves and appreciate the relationships they have in their lives. Jim Benton’s bestselling book series is brought to life in this engaging and entertaining film.