STARTER FOR 10 movie review by Betty Jo Tucker

by Betty Jo Tucker

Even the best of us make mistakes, but the way we deal with them reveals more about our character than the mistakes themselves. Starter for 10, an amusing coming-of-age film starring James McAvoy, delivers that message loud and clear. After watching this movie, I can finally see why McAvoy obtained so many top roles -- such as the doctor in The Last King of Scotland and Jane Austen’s romantic interest in Becoming Jane -- as a result of his work here. He’s totally convincing as a working-class kid trying to survive his first year at a prestigious university and still maintain his old friends at home. Of course, winning the girl of his dreams also ranks high on his wish list.

But more than anything, Brian (McAvoy) wants to compete on the quiz show, “University Challenge.” When he earns a substitute place on the team, he’s very happy. After all, this enables him to be near gorgeous teammate Alice (Alice Eve), who seems to enjoy being with him – at least until a humiliating incident occurs while Brian is visiting at the home of her parents over the Christmas holidays. Embarrassing things continue happening to Brian as he attempts a rebound relationship with politically-conscious Rebecca (Rebecca Hall). Despite her anger at Brian over a slip of the tongue, Rebecca can’t help being concerned about him. The chemistry Hall and McAvoy achieve on screen in their scenes together is most impressive, and I felt great interest in finding out if Brian would end up with Rebecca or Alice -- or perhaps neither one.

I also found it intriguing to watch Brian interact with his old buddies who seem afraid he will change into a very different person because of his university experience. And he almost does.

When Brian becomes a regular member of the University Challenge team, things run smoothly until Alice jilts him. He goes into a deep funk – but he shapes up enough to make the finals. Sadly, that’s where he makes his big mistake, and it’s a doosie. Will Brian ever be able to recover from his momentary error of judgment? By this time, we desperately hope so!

Deftly combining comedy with bitter-sweet moments, director Tom Vaughn achieves just the right pace in Starter for 10. Based on the novel by David Nicholls, the film rings true and is a joy to watch, even the sad parts. This involving little movie will probably take you back to your own freshman college days -- and it will definitely entertain you on the journey.

DVD bonus items include an on-screen music guide and a behind-the-scenes featurette with cast and crew interviews.

(Released by HBO Video and rated “PG-13” for sexual content, language, and a scene of drug use.)

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STARTER FOR 10 Highlights Growing Pains & Romance

by Betty Jo Tucker

STARTER FOR 10
Highlights Growing Pains & Romance