Hannah Montana The Movie- Review

Aimed primarily at the tweens market of 7-12 year old girls, but with a sweet, good natured, infectiousness that will also be a hit with anyone between the ages of 2 and 14, Hannah Montana The Movie is the story of a young girl who is also a secret part time pop star.

The movie tells the story of Miley's struggle to deal with the trappings of fame and the difficulties of living a double life: part Miley; a sweet, country town girl, part Hannah Montana; popstar.

Although it sounds schmaltzy and lightweight and certainly won't be an Oscar contender this film is perfect Disney family fare. Not only will the kids love it, but the parents won't be able to keep themselves from tapping their feet under the seat in front thanks to the catchy soundtrack.

The thing that works so well about this movie is that it doesn't try to be something that it isn't. It is chasing the tween market and it offers the perfect combination of exactly what tweens want whilst also still pleasing their parents with its wholesome, moralistic message. It espouses family, friendship, love and community over the perils of fame and capitalism but without losing any of the elements that make it kiddy crack to the tween market.

Miley Cyrus' performance is surprisingly accomplished when compared to her efforts in the TV version of the show, not only is she believable but she is an 8 year olds dream. Billy Ray Cyrus also puts in a passable performance, but it is Miley that steals her own show. A quick musical interlude with Taylor Swift completes the tween dream team. 

Hannah Montana appeals to a similar market to High School Musical, but aims just a couple of years younger and for this reason is more appealing to children that aren't actually teenagers themselves yet.

Art it may not be, but it's mighty fun nonetheless.

Starring: Miley Cyrus, Billy Ray Cyrus, jason Earles, Emily Osment

Director: Peter Chelsom

Running Time: 1hr 32 minutes