https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nd4cLL_MP7M

        Fans of the original “Mamma Mia!” will not be disappointed when seeing its lively sequel, “Here We Go Again.” This film blends many genres — movie-musical, sequel-prequel, comedy-romance — to create a perfect summer show. Its joy and energy leave the audience wishing for more.

The original movie leaves off when Sophie (Amanda Seyfried), postpones her marriage plans on the Greek island where her mother Donna (Meryl Streep) owns a small hotel. “Here We Go Again” picks up years after and follows Sophie’s discoveries about her mother’s past as she plans to renovate the hotel.

        The film highlights ABBA hits like “Waterloo,” “Dancing Queen,” and, of course, “Mamma Mia” as Sophie strengthens her relationship with her mother’s former bandmates and the three men her mother told her could be her father. The story is told through a series of flashbacks to Donna’s life and travels as the characters prepare for the hotel’s grand opening.

There is something so sincere about this movie’s silliness that makes it enjoyable to watch despite the inanity. The grand reveal at the conclusion of the movie is the (spoiler alert!) cameo appearance by Cher as Sofi’s estranged grandmother. Cher’s reveal leads to an energetic finale of music and a rendition of “Super Trouper” that brings back the likes of Meryl Streep herself. Although producers could have focused on some of the more melodic voices, the songs by Lily James (young Donna) and Cher are enough for the whole cast. Audiences come for the music, but are ultimately rewarded by the film’s unlimited energy and emotion.