Cinema Connoisseur: These idols deserve golden tickets

From Justin to Kelly (2003)

It's that time of the year again — the start of another season of the most popular show on television, “American Idol.”

I don't know about you, but I have Idol Fever. Yep, I have all of the symptoms - chest pains, blurred vision, uncontrollable yelling of profanity and the loss of feeling in one foot. It's all worth it though to see someone's dream come true, and thousands of other dreams crushed.

So why am I rambling on about a television show in a column that is supposed to be dedicated to feature films? First of all, don't you dare question me again. But since you must know, the reason is due to the fact that this week's film features two of the biggest stars to be launched from the platform of “American Idol.” This week I'll be taking a look at From Justin to Kelly.

Kelly Clarkson, the first ever winner of “American Idol” stars in From Justin to Kelly, alongside the runner-up from that same year, Justin Guarini. In a case of art imitating life, Clarkson plays a young lady named Kelly who works as a waitress in Texas, occasionally showcasing her true talent by singing in bars. Kelly and two friends head down to Florida for spring break. That is where Kelly meets Justin.

Justin is a college student who makes some extra money by running special events during spring break. Among these is a whipped cream bikini contest. This was the only problem I had with the film, as this kind of events is very degrading. By the way, don't forget to come out to Forwell Hall next Wednesday at noon for the ‘Best Buns' competition.

Justin and Kelly fall for each other, however one obstacle after another gets in their way. Even one of Kelly's friends hatches an elaborate plot to sabotage their budding relationship, as she wants to win the heart of Justin for herself. Can the love between Justin and Kelly persevere?

Justin and Kelly are both outstanding young thespians. If Kelly decided to put her highly successful music career on hold, and if Justin was able to get some time off from Red Lobster, they could surely become the biggest stars in Hollywood. They share an amazing amount of chemistry together, reminiscent of such classic pairings as Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, and Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito.

The musical and dance numbers showcased in From Justin to Kelly are some of the most breathtaking moments ever captured on film. If you're anything like me, then you enjoy seeing characters break into song at a moment's whim. Sure two lines of dialogue may accomplish what a five-minute song does, but it just wouldn't have the same amount of flair. Chicago, Moulin Rouge, Sweeney Todd and Hairspray were all award winning musicals that could not hold a candle to From Justin to Kelly.

Unfortunately the film was unable to duplicate the same monumental success that the television show it's stars originated from has achieved. It grossed a mere $5 million at the box office. However, films like From Justin to Kelly aren't made with monetary gain as a motive. They are made because a group of people get together who share a desire to create a piece of art that will live on forever.

Well, mission accomplished. From Justin to Kelly, dawg, you are the bomb. Grab your golden ticket.

So go to your video retailer today and pick up a copy of From Justin to Kelly. Support this film so we can get more films from the stars of “American Idol.” Who wouldn't want to see Carrie Underwood and Clay Aiken starring in Aiken to Get Underwood?