Dec. 03, 2021|United States|94 Min.|n/A
Genre: Comedy;Drama;Family
Description: “Mixtape 2021” is a heartfelt dramedy set in the nostalgic era of the 1990s. The story centers around Beverly, a 12-year-old orphan played by Gemma Brook Allen, who embarks on a journey to uncover the songs on a mixtape left behind by her deceased parents. Directed by Valerie Weiss, the film stands out among typical tween movies with its sentimental charm and a soundtrack featuring iconic artists like Vitamin C and Lit.
The plot takes a whimsical turn when Beverly seeks help from a cynical record-store owner, played by Nick Thune, who describes a mixtape as a personal message from its creator to the listener. While the film is filled with such thoughtful insights, its inherent warmth prevents them from feeling overly sentimental. Julie Bowen, known for her role in “Modern Family,” portrays Beverly’s grandmother, Gail, a former teen mom who struggles with the painful memories of her daughter’s past. Gail’s cautionary advice encourages Beverly to avoid repeating her mother’s mistakes.
Beverly’s mother, a rebellious musician, tragically died in a car accident alongside her husband, leaving behind unanswered questions. The mixtape, with its cryptic tracklist, becomes Beverly’s anchor to understanding her parents’ lives. Gemma Brook Allen’s endearing performance draws comparisons to Abigail Breslin’s memorable role in “Little Miss Sunshine,” adding depth to the film’s emotional core.
“Mixtape” blends nostalgia, music, and heartfelt storytelling, making it a touching exploration of family, loss, and self-discovery.
Cast director: Valerie Weiss
Cast actor: Gemma Brooke Allen, Julie Bowen, Nick Thune, Audrey Hsieh, Olga Petsa, Jackson Rathbone, Diego Mercado, Anthony Timpano, Kiefer O’Reilly, Lucas Yao
Original name: Mixtape