Watch Hollywood Stargirl

Hollywood Stargirl is a feel-good, coming-of-age movie that combines elements of drama, romance, and music to tell the story of a talented teenager navigating her way through life and the challenges that come with ambition and the pursuit of dreams. Released in 2022, the film is a sequel to the 2020 movie "Stargirl" and is based on characters from the novel "Stargirl" by Jerry Spinelli.

The movie continues following the journey of Stargirl Caraway, portrayed by the charismatic and talented Grace VanderWaal, who gained widespread attention for her victory on "America's Got Talent" and later her heartfelt portrayal of the title character in the first film. In this sequel, VanderWaal's Stargirl steps into the bustling and unpredictable world of Hollywood, looking to expand her horizons and explore new creative opportunities.

Hollywood Stargirl showcases the young protagonist as she moves from her quiet hometown to the larger-than-life landscape of Los Angeles. Here, the spirited Stargirl encounters new friends, experiences, and a vibrant variety of individuals and artists that make up the city's rich tapestry. One of these individuals is Evan, played by Elijah Richardson, a film student with aspirations of telling influential stories through the power of cinema. Their friendship blossoms as they share a mutual passion for creativity and expression, giving Stargirl a sense of belonging in this sprawling urban jungle.

Judy Greer is featured in this heartwarming story as Ana, a character that plays a significant role in Stargirl's new life in Hollywood. Greer, known for her versatility across both drama and comedy, delivers a performance that contributes to the film's warmth and depth, as her character intertwines with Stargirl's personal growth and artistic endeavors.

The narrative of Hollywood Stargirl takes the audience on a voyage of self-discovery and personal growth. As a sequel, it builds upon the foundation laid by the original film but allows both newcomers and returning fans to easily immerse themselves in Stargirl's experiences without feeling lost. The core of the movie lies in its portrayal of the courage it takes to chase dreams and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures and industry standards.

Music and performance remain central to the storytelling, with scenes that are sure to capture the audiences' hearts through catchy tunes and evocative songwriting, which are inherent strengths of musician and actress Grace VanderWaal. The movie spotlights her unique voice and ukulele skills, infusing her character with authenticity and a sense of free-spiritedness that is synonymous with Stargirl.

The film is not just a story about making it big in the city of stars but also dives into themes of friendship, love, and community. It illustrates how the connections we forge can influence our path and how collaboration can lead to the creation of something beautiful and transcendent. Viewers are likely to find themselves compelled by the strength and resilience that Stargirl exhibits as she encounters various challenges that test her resolve.

Hollywood Stargirl is visually vibrant and captures the essence of Los Angeles through its cinematography. The bustling streets, the intimate performance venues, and the range of eclectic people add a dimension to the film that aids in transporting viewers into Stargirl's new world. It's not only a geographical shift from her previous small-town life. It's a shift in understanding and a broader canvas for her to paint her story.

The direction and screenplay, combined with compelling performances, create a seamless continuation of Stargirl's story. The film maintains the original's innocence and wholesomeness while introducing more complex themes and relationships. Like the classic tales of dreamers heading to Hollywood to make a name for themselves, Hollywood Stargirl spins this familiar narrative with a unique twist, highlighting the power of youthful exuberance and sincerity.

Hollywood Stargirl is a film that families can enjoy together, and viewers of all ages can find its message uplifting and inspiring. It speaks to the dreamer in everyone, encouraging us to persevere and trust in the magic of our own unique talents. With a refreshing take on the traditional Hollywood story, the movie is a testament to the joy of following one's heart, creating art, and connecting with others on the journey toward reaching the stars.

Hollywood Stargirl is a 2022 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8 and a MetaScore of 66.