I just saw this movie for the first time and I loved it! I've read several negative reviews about "Max Keeble's Big Move". The only conclusion I can come to about why someone wouldn't like it, is because it is "too perfect!" Anyone who didn't like it, may have been put-off by the unrealistically perfect world created in this movie.
The main character, Max Keeble (played by Alex D. Linz) is a powerhouse. He's got everything going for him. He's got good looks and a smashing personality, two cool buds to hang out with who will do anything for him -- Robe (played by Josh Peck) and Megan (played by Zena Grey) who also "really likes him". He's got the coolest parents any kid would ever want. And he comes out the winner in everything he does.
There for a time, it does look like Max is going to lose everything: his best friend Robe, Megan who "really likes him", and probably his life when one of the many bullies catches up to him. But being a good person at heart and a true man, he faces up to his friends that he has hurt and apologizes. Then he faces up to each of the bullies, beating them at their own game, and thus becomes the school "hero".
Couple this fast paced story with interesting sets and costumes, impeccable lighting and sound, and Tim Hill's directing, and you end up with the "perfect" Saturday Matinee Movie, with a happy ending to boot! Great fun!
This movie should (and still could be) made into a weekly series. It would be way cool, with Justin Berfield as the school newspaper editor narrating and covering all the antics of Max, Megan, and Robe; popping up just at the right time to snap pictures and to keep the plot moving. The principal (played by Larry Miller) would have to be replaced; that's too bad because he was really funny. And I would love to see more of Dennis Haskins. What a winning combination they would make!
Get it on DVD for the kids. A great movie for the kid in all of us!
