The movie centers around Alex Fletcher (played with ultimate charm by Hugh Grant), a has been member of a former pop group literally named “Pop.” The opening sequence of the film is, in fact, supposed to be a good music video of the group led by Colin (Scott Porter) and Alex (Grant). Who knew that Grant could make the kind of moves he does in this film? I actually found it kind of in a weird sort of way.
It seems that Alex’s former band, Pop, disbanded years ago when partner Colin went on to become a big star. Alex, on the other hand, never got a break and has ended up playing theme parks, business openings, and class reunions. Just as he is about to give up and admit his has-been status, Alex is approached by his manager to write a song for a current pop star named Cora (played by Haley Bennett). It seems that Cora, who is a weird combination of, Britney, Christina, and Shakira, likes his old songs and wants him to write one for her.
There is a catch, unfortunately, in that although Alex used to write the music for his songs, he never wrote the lyrics. Thorat was the job of his fmer partner. Not wanting lose the gig, which would allow him to sing on stage with Cora, he tasks his manager Chris (played with wit by Brad Garrett) with helping him find a lyricist. But the lyricist that Chris finds for Alex is more suited to heavy metal music than he is to love songs.
As luck would have it, just as the two new partners begin their music collaboration, a girl comes to the door to water Alex’s plants. Sophie Fisher (played adorably by Drew Barrymore), it seems is a natural born lyricist who inadvertently suggests a few lines for the collaboration. Alex finds Sophie’s suggestions much more suited to his style and Voila, a new partnership is born.
Many people decry watching TV as a family activity. ‘There are so many other worthwhile activities to do with a family!’ they wail. Sure there are more active pursuits for families; those activities are often costly and time-consuming. Sometimes, the family just needs to relax and unwind.