‘Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again’
Improbably, the Mamma Mia sequel that proceeded with Meryl Streep’s character gone (though not forgotten) ended up being an improvement on the original. Flashing back to Donna’s younger days, Lily James gets perhaps her greatest showcase yet for the kind of movie star she can be, and she does not disappoint. Along with Jessica Keenan Wynn (as an uncanny young Christine Baranski) and Alexa Davies (as young Julie Walters), these flashback scenes bring life to the film and keep the present day scenes from spinning off too wildly into silliness. (Also, not for nothing, but keeping Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, and Stellan Skarsgard as far away from a solo as possible was also a smart call.) The production numbers are pure celebratory goodness, and by the time Cher steps her foot down on dry land, whatever viewing party you’re watching with will likely be screaming in appreciation. Or else get new friends.