This is a movie the entire family can watch. And of course it's a formula, but it's a nice formula. Maybe, just maybe there are strict parents who would have a problem with younger kids seeing it, but there's nothing worse than the scene with both Seymour and Mrs. Butz. Yes, you know what will happen there.
Although this is a movie about Latinos, it is respectful of the culture and doesn't deal in stereotypes. It could be about anyone. The music is great, for the most part. Even white people liked it back in the 50s and 60s. And I like it now. Although "America's Funniest Home Videos" shows that the pinata has been made a part of white culture as well, the Latinos did this first and they do it here. The Catholic Church is also important to these people.
All the leading actors give good performances. Other than the evil lawyer who wants to take the kids away from Ray Ray, no one is stereotypical or cartoonish.
The family has comic adventures, and sad moments, and touching moments. Despite obstacles, this is a movie. I bet things are going to work out.
Good moral values are taught here, even though temptation is there. Some characters are surprisingly well-behaved compared to what one might expect in films of this type.
It's a good family film.
