Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules

Growing up, I had a personal relationship with the Boogeyman: He was my older brother. This might explain why I have a special affinity with Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules. In this second adaptation of the popular kids’ series, Greg Hefley (Zacharay Gordon) enters middle school and falls for the new girl, all the while living in the evil shadow of his brother Rodrick (Devon Bostick). When their mom tries to strengthen the relationship between the boys, it leads to some disastrous conclusions.

ClearPlay In Action!

Think of something that would make a 10-year-old laugh, and that’s the type of stuff ClearPlay cuts, mostly jokes dealing with rear ends or their byproducts. A few shots of a disembodied foot (!) are cut, and some language is cut as well. There is an extended scene of a boy running around in his underwear that is intact and might make some viewers uncomfortable. Otherwise, Diary is mostly fine for everyone when ClearPlayed.

Is Diary wimpy, or does it rule?…

A lot of people who like the books complain about the adaptations not being faithful, but having never read them, I found the story enjoyable. Rodrick Rules does a nice job of showing a love/hate sibling relationship that is ultimately uplifting. Throw in some good belly laughs, and you’ve got yourself a pretty solid family film.

Marty Nabhan— ClearPlay Picked–On Younger Brother

Rated Rated PG for some mild rude humor and mischief; 99 min; Directed By David Bowers