Don’t Say Good Luck review – high-school musical weepie puts Sunny Sandler in the spotlight

The recent film “Don’t Say Good Luck” has sparked conversations about the pressures faced by teenagers in musical theater, particularly those who are thrust into leading roles at a young age. The movie’s portrayal of these struggles is undoubtedly heartfelt and relatable, but it also raises important questions about the expectations placed on these young performers.

The film follows Sunny Sandler as Soph, a shy teenager who lands the lead role in her school production of “Waitress.” As she navigates the demands of rehearsals and performances, Soph must contend with her mother’s illness, which is kept secret from her until it’s almost too late. This plot twist highlights the reality that for many young performers, the pressure to succeed is not just about impressing audiences or winning awards, but also about making ends meet while their parents fight for life.

Adam Sandler, producer and co-writer of the film, brings a level of insight and empathy to the narrative, thanks in part to his own experiences with his daughter. However, the movie’s focus on the individual struggles of its protagonist sometimes glosses over the broader social context in which these pressures exist.

The systemic issues that contribute to the pressures faced by young performers include inadequate funding and resources for arts programs, as well as the expectation that students will prioritize their education above all else – even if it means sacrificing their own well-being. While the movie acknowledges these issues, it relies on sentimental tropes to convey them, which can feel like a cop-out in the face of more nuanced and complex problems.

Despite these criticisms, “Don’t Say Good Luck” remains a powerful exploration of the high-pressure world of teen musical theater. It serves as a reminder that for many young performers, the stakes are not just about winning or losing, but about their very sense of identity and self-worth. As we watch Soph navigate the ups and downs of her school production, it’s impossible not to think about our own experiences with pressure and expectation – and how these can shape us in profound ways.

The movie’s conclusion, which sees Soph finding a sense of resolve and determination in the face of adversity, feels like a timely reminder that we should be doing more to support young performers and artists. This includes providing adequate resources and funding for arts programs, as well as creating safe spaces where students can express themselves without fear of judgment or reprisal.

Ultimately, “Don’t Say Good Luck” is a film that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the weight of expectation on their shoulders. It’s a poignant reminder that even in the most high-pressure environments, we must prioritize our own well-being and self-worth above all else. As Soph navigates the challenges of her school production, she comes to realize that success is not just about achieving a certain goal or winning a certain award – but about finding a sense of purpose and meaning that goes beyond the spotlight.

The film leaves viewers feeling both hopeful and haunted, with a powerful reminder that the pressures faced by young performers are not just about individual struggles, but also about systemic issues that require our collective attention and action. As we watch Soph find her voice and her place in the world of musical theater, it’s impossible not to think about what this means for all of us – and how we can work together to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for young artists everywhere.