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Mixtape is a heartwarming coming-of-age dramedy released in 2021 that centers around the nostalgic power of music and the unbreakable bonds of family and friendship. Directed by Valerie Weiss and written by Stacey Menear, the film may not be the most groundbreaking of its genre, but it still manages to deliver a touching story that resonates with audiences of all ages.

The film introduces us to 12-year-old Beverly Moody, portrayed by Gemma Brooke Allen, who lives with her grandmother Gail, played with grace and complexity by Julie Bowen. Beverly is an introspective and slightly awkward preteen trying to navigate the complexities of her world with the added pressure of not knowing much about her late parents, who died when she was very young. With her grandmother reluctant to talk about the past, Beverly feels a void where the history of her family should be.

One fateful day, Beverly stumbles upon a broken mixtape that belonged to her deceased mother. Curiosity piqued and with an innate sense of connection to this newfound relic, she sets out on a quest to reconstruct the damaged mixtape, which she believes will offer her a tangible link to her parents. In the process, she hopes to uncover more about their lives and, possibly, her own identity.

As Beverly embarks on this sentimental adventure, she enlists the help of her two spirited friends, Ellen and Nicky, played by Audrey Hsieh and Olga Petsa, respectively. The dynamics among the trio capture the essence of childhood friendships: mischievous, supportive, and adventurous. The friends are fleshed out with their unique personalities and backgrounds, adding depth to the narrative and presenting a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives.

The journey to recreate the mixtape leads the group of friends through a series of escapades throughout their town. Set against the backdrop of the early 2000s, the film effectively uses music of the era as a driving narrative force. Each song that Beverly seeks for her mixtape becomes more than just a track; it serves as a clue to understanding the people her parents were and a step closer to Beverly's self-discovery.

Throughout the movie, the significance of each song choice and its impact on the characters' lives is made apparent. The notion that music is a universal language and a powerful force that can evoke memories, emotions, and connections with others is masterfully interwoven into the film's plot.

The supporting cast, including Nick Thune and Jackson Rathbone, contribute layers to the storytelling as Beverly encounters various quirky characters on her journey—each providing wisdom, humor, and a few life lessons.

Mixtape is not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it also captures the essence of growing up and dealing with loss and uncertainty. It addresses the struggles that come with adolescence: the desire for identity, the importance of friendship, and the need to belong. These themes are tackled with sensitivity and a light-heartedness that keeps the film from becoming too heavy, balancing emotional beats with comedic moments.

Visually, the film offers a visually pleasing aesthetic that fits the tone of the story. Cinematographer Monika Lenczewska captures the sun-soaked suburban setting with vibrant colors and a keen eye for detail, making each frame inviting and evocative of the era.

Performance-wise, Gemma Brooke Allen shines as Beverly, bringing an earnest and relatable portrayal of a girl on the cusp of teenagerhood. Her chemistry with her co-stars, particularly Julie Bowen, underpins the film's exploration of familial bonds and the pain of separation. Bowen's performance is multilayered, demonstrating Gail's protective nature as well as her grief and regret without resorting to melodrama.

Mixtape successfully taps into the shared human experiences of grief, growth, and the comforting resilience of nostalgia. It brings forth the thematic exploration of how objects from the past, such as a simple mixtape, can hold significant sentimental value, shaping our perceptions and providing solace when grappling with the past.

What makes Mixtape special is its tender portrayal of the intersection between the formative years of adolescence and the everlasting influence of music. The film prompts viewers to reminisce about their own mixtapes and playlists that once served as the soundtracks of their lives. It's a poignant reminder that while technology has evolved, the emotions tied to these musical collections remain timeless.

Mixtape, with its combination of humor, warmth, and a stellar soundtrack, appeals not only to those who grew up during the 2000s but also to anyone who appreciates a heartfelt story of self-discovery and connection. It's a tale that proves the right song can feel like coming home, no matter where you are on life's journey.

Mixtape is a 2021 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.