RICKI and the FLASH Starring Meryl Streep, Audra McDonald and Kevin Kline

If you don't find yourself laughing out loud and enjoying every maudlin moment with Meryl & McDonald, then you're probably - young or male.  I'll have to forgive you that one.  For those of us who remember the 80's with nostalgia and know few stars like Streep, Kline & McDonald come along each generation, let your heart get lost in this family drama/romance and just drift away.  By the way, this generation has Mamie Gummer who plays Julie, the suicidal, volatile daughter to Ricki (Streep) and Pete (Kline.)  Gummer is Streep's own daughter; with her own real star power.  Ricki was the absent mom who left her husband/family to make it as a rock star in LA. McDonald plays the wife/mother who "filled the whole" left by Ricki. But, fame & fortune is a magnet. It can pull you far from home.  With a dream & a family, you're never alone.  Your ex will bring you back when your daughter's husband exits.  Ricki and the Flash is the rock band that has a loyal fan base of a few oldies. They show up regularly in the local Tarzana "Cheers" pub.  Day after day, I get more confused. Is that Rick Springfield in the band and in bed with Streep? The elder generation is not the only ones who get lampooned; ain't it a shame. Streep does an amazing job singing with her fabulous FLASH band featuring Springfield.  Ironic, McDonald doesn't sing.  But look for the light that shines through the melodrama and let the melody soothe you.  Ah, come on everyone, just have fun; every boy, girl, woman and man.