Monte Carlo

Grace (Selena Gomez) lives in Texas, works in a diner, and has just earned her high school diploma. Since receiving a snow globe of Paris when she was young, Grace has been saving money to go on a weeklong vacation to France. Now that graduation is over, she and her close friend, Emma (Katie Cassidy) have the tickets and plan to take off. But, wait. Grace's parents (Brett Cullen and Andie McDowell), newly married, decide that older stepsister, Meg (Leighton Meister) must go along to keep everyone safe. Neither Grace or Meg is happy with this arrangement but decide it will be preferable to no trip at all. Once in Paris, the tour and the hotel are far short of expectations for all of the girls, causing disappointment. But, the trio of gals has a chance eavesdrop with a young British aristocrat, Cordelia (also Selena Gomez) that changes their vacation. Grace discovers that Cordelia is breaking commitments she made for a fund raising in Monte Carlo and going undercover for a few days. Thus, an opportunity arises for Grace to step into Cordelia's shoes, for they resemble identical twins. Once landing in Monaco, the girls are treated like royalty, with fabulous hotel accommodations and a closet full of designer clothes. Holding her breath, Grace finds that no one suspects that she is an impostor, not even the handsome son of the charity's director. He serves as her guide and "date". Emma, too, finds herself the object of affection for the local guys, although she is practically engaged to her boyfriend, Owen, back in Texas. Finally, reserved Meg also comes out of her shell when she meets a dashing Australian tourist. Thus, for a few days, it is a slice of "royal heaven" for the vacationers. But, will the deception be discovered and what will be the consequences if it is? This is a lovely looking film with a beautiful, talented young star, Gomez. A natural performer with a sweet-and-saucy air, she makes the most of her duel roles. Cassidy, Meister, and all of the other cast members do nice work, too. Naturally, the costumes and sets are quite lovely. But, and its huge issue, the script doesn't contain nearly enough comedy or cleverness to sustain a complete film. The premise, yes, is good but the execution is lacking. Then, too, the direction doesn't help matters with its complete dirth of energy. Therefore, the film plods along and has some boring moments. Thankfully, the finale makes a splash but its almost too late. Girls, young and old, will like the film and patiently overlook the dull bits. But, any others forced to watch it will be scowling up a storm.