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Can a marionette named Froggy Doo really be the star of a family who-dun-it that isn’t just for kids? And can a movie with this premise even entertain?

Elliott Plumm knows right away that his summer is going to be something totally different than any other, but it isn’t until his little brother’s hero—Froggy Doo—is kidnapped during a live appearance that he finds out just how different.

Not all that interested in the missing frog, Elliott only finds his inspiration when he hears that there is a $700 reward for the return of Froggy. So, along with his little brother Rocky, he puts the skills he’s learned while reading The Hardy Boys mysteries to work and sets out to save the day.

Enter one cute as a button, girl next door with a similar fondness for Trixie Belden, and you’ve got one heck of a team. While things look hopeless for Froggy, Elliott is faced with his father’s drinking habit and the impending breakup of his parent’s marriage, but somehow through it all, he manages to take down the town bully, and confront his father about his lack of love for him.

Chris J. Kelly plays Elliott to perfection. It’s not often I find kid characters in contemporary films and shows that don’t make me want to smack them, but the actors in this one were likeable and realistic. Owen Pearce (Rocky) is just too darn cute.

There is also a wonderful character, played by Henry Winkler, named Happy Herb who is a heartwarming addition.

The family dynamics in this film aren’t always pretty, but they are important and the interaction between the characters is so real, you feel their angst and joy. A Plumm Summer is about making good and even the worst characters are redeemed.

The best part about A Plumm Summer is the way it feels. You see it through contemporary eyes, but yet the scenery of Montana and the perception of the old small town is simply charming. This film could have taken place any time in the last forty years, but it’s just plain fresh!

I give this one two thumbs up and recommend families to watch it together. This one isn’t just for kids. I can say that with a clear conscience, since I don’t have any kids and it’s now on my keeper shelf.

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