Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules review

           

            Diary of a Wimpy Kid is one of those rare films in which the children and teens look and act as though they were actually the age they are portraying. Many of them actually are, and this along with a humorously honest screenplay inspired by the books of Jeff Kinney helps to create a believable and enjoyable family film. It is not annoying or cliché; does not talk down to younger viewers or bore older ones. Few family films can actually be enjoyed by the entire family, but this is a rare exception, especially now that the storyline also includes teenagers as a central focus.

            The movie follows flawed protagonist Greg Heffley (Zachary Gordon). All of the other boys seem to be reaching puberty, sprouting hair and height overnight. As such, Greg is the second-smallest boy in his sixth grade class, but he has the shortest boy as a buffer between him and the bullies. When his childish best friend Rowley (Robert Capron) threatens to embarrass him, Greg often considers ditching him. This time around the film is more about the way Greg deals with his angst-filled older brother, Rodrick

            Rodrick makes Greg’s life miserable, especially in front of his latest crush. After his parents grow tired of the fighting, it is decided that the brothers must spend more time together in order to bond. This turns out predictably bad, but the brothers eventually find a way to get along when it really counts.