The first thing I thought upon viewing Alice Upside Down was, “Finally!” Alice McKinley looks like a real 11-year-old — her hair is disheveled, she spills on herself, she hates meatloaf — unlike the Hannah Montana, Disney-fied tweens we’re used to seeing today. Based on the character created by Newbery medalist Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, Alice McKinley (Alyson Stoner of Camp Rock) is the new girl in school, which means plenty of awkward situations, anxiety, and new challenges. Luckily Alice uses her vast imagination to envision herself as a popular, confident girl able to tackle everything from theater club tryouts to finding the perfect date for her widowed dad (Luke Perry! I haven’t seen him since he moved from 90210). Alice is relatable, realistic, and quick to admit her many mistakes as she navigates her first year of middle school in a new city. A simple movie with several positive messages for young viewers.
Releases July 29
Amazon.com

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