As told from consulting producer Danny Bonaduce's point-of-reference, this well-cast but otherwise unconvincing look at the fleeting stardom which comes with a hit television show isn't going to interest anyone but fans of "The Partridge Family" (some of whom may only express contempt). An artificial TV family and music band, created by jaded Hollywood producers only interested in turning a quick buck, holds repercussions for the actors, particularly teen heartthrob David Cassidy (who fights against the squeaky-clean image manufactured by the brass) and fast-talking redhead Danny Bonaduce (who has to contend with a jealous, abusive real-life father at home). Mediocre TV-movie isn't interested in delineating the week-by-week showmanship which goes into creating a series; if we're to believe it--that the scripts and production were this simple-minded and cheesy--then the actual "Partridge" TV show would not have succeeded (nor would it have stood the test of time where it really counts--in reruns). Hollywood certainly has a knack for making the unreal look real, yet this flick has nothing on the original when it comes to being manufactured.
Come On, Get Happy: The Partridge Family Story
(1999 TV Movie)
The four-year Partridge phenomenon, told without irony or vitality...
18 September 2010