13 Going on 30

Rating: 3.5/5

A romantic comedy that is at times, better than most, 13 Going on 30 proves that just because a movie is simple, doesn't mean it can't be entertaining.

In the year 1987, Jenna Rink is celebrating her thirteenth birthday. Her main wish is to be a member of the popular group of girls called the Six Chicks and to be thirty. When Tom-Tom, the leader of the Six Chicks, tricks Jenna at her party, she locks herself in her closet, wishing over and over again to be thirty, flirty, and thriving.

As a major shock to Jenna (Jennifer Garner), her wish comes true, and she finds herself waking up in an apartment she doesn't recognize, as a thirteen year old, trapped inside a thirty year old's body. Rattled at first, Jenna doesn't know what to make of her magical transformation, so she searches for her childhood best friend Matt (Mark Ruffalo). Once she finds him, she discovers that her thirty year old self is incredibly different from what she expected, and she must figure out exactly what kind of a girl she truly is.

Romantic comedies don't generally receive much praise, and it is usually because they are cheesy and predictable. 13 Going on 30 is both of those things, but it is also sweet and charming. The concept for the movie is original, and that definitely helps it not to be as cliche as other films in its' genre, and it also gives the movie a gentle and youthful feel.

13 Going on 30 was the first movie I had ever seen Mark Ruffalo in, and even though I was quite young when I first saw this film, it was clear that Ruffalo was meant to be in bigger and better things. He plays his role not as the love interest in a romantic comedy, but with the amount of effort and dedication of someone acting in a serious and well reviewed film; making his portrayal one of, if not the best, performances in the movie. Jennifer Garner does a wonderful job at making Jenna slowly adapt into being thirty, but still holding on to the naivety and energy of her thirteen year old self. As far fetched as the concept of the film is, Garner is the main reason it appears believable throughout the movie.

One of the big reasons this film is entertaining, is the cleverness behind Jenna's new life. There are moments where Jenna's true age comes to light when she is around other adults, and it makes the viewer anxious to see what other humorous ways her dual age is going to present itself. Adding to the film's whimsical concept, is the ever popular tactic of 80's nostalgia. The soundtrack alone, makes this movie likable from beginning to end.

Even though 13 Going on 30 has some questionable moments to it, I have always enjoyed it. I know that its' not one of the best movies out there, but it is comforting and fun; just as it should be.