Jersey Boys

If you expect a film about the history of a Rock ‘n’ Roll band to have more than plenty of foul language, every color of blasphemous terminology and a bit of mostly non-graphic violence, “Jersey Boys” will not surprise you.

This is one of those films that would work pretty well with a language filter, except the sexual references are somewhat frequent and not necessarily shrouded in curse words. It is, of course, no secret that sexuality is core to the story of Rock ‘n’ Roll. This movie indulges in many sexual imaginations, but I must say I was surprised at the lack of flesh. There is little of it—little or no heavy kissing, no nudity, no necking, just quite a bit of talk and a few tight dresses.

One character is a flagrant homosexual, and some of his sexual proclivities are made reference to more than once. His effeminacy is of milder proportion than characters from other films with similar roles—namely the role of quasi intellectual, talented, quick witted, gay artist. Think of Robin William’s brother in Mrs. Doubtfire. This character is a more groomed, masculine looking, more subtle version of such flamboyancy. My guess is this is not far at all from a true music producer of the 1950’s and 60’s. Violence-wise, there is a point blank shooting at one point in the film which is loud but not highly graphic. There are tempers, arguments, pushes and occasional strikes but not a whole lot of violence.

I do believe “Jersey Boys” is an accurate portrayal of Rock ‘n’ Roll history. If history interests you, or if you like Broadway plays, you’ll likely enjoy this film which is based on a play by the same name. The film is intriguing and has a good sense of humor.

It is also a tragic and accurate portrayal of what life on the road, not just with Rock artists, will do to a family. This film strengthened my resolve that families cannot be apart for long without growing apart. Even being on the road together, though it certainly poses particular difficulties, is not so unprescribed in Scripture as to be away from them. To abandon the primary blessing of family, a clear and present gift from God, except out of complete necessity, is foolish.

Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. (Psalm 128:1-3)

“Jersey Boys” has a lot of value, in between the frequent f-bombs and lewd sexual references. It glorifies the music without glorifying the certainly less-than-glorious lives. Director Clint Eastwood certainly shows his cinematic talent in this film. I expect it to not be surpassed soon as a solid portrayal of what was formed in an a little Italian community, what became a large slice of American history and changed the course of music the world over.

Violence: Mild to moderate / Profanity: Extreme / Sex/Nudity: Moderate

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