That Thing You Do!

That Thing You Do! is a heartwarming and uplifting musical comedy-drama film, released in 1996, starring an ensemble cast led by Tom Hanks, who also directed and wrote the film, joined by up-and-coming talents of the 90s including Liv Tyler and Charlize Theron. The plot is set against the vibrant backdrop of the mid-1960s pop music era, capturing all the charm, glitz, and excitement which defined the period.

At its core, That Thing You Do! is about a band named "The Wonders" and their accidental ascent to No.1-hit stardom, following the success of their single, "That Thing You Do". Guy Patterson, played by Tom Everett Scott, is roped into playing drums for his friend's pop band, The Wonders, during a talent show in their small town, Erie, Pennsylvania. What was supposed to be a temporary stint turns a dramatic corner when Patterson's upbeat tempo sets the crowd dancing and swaying. Consequently, this chance performance propels the previously unheard-of band to unexpected heights of fame.

The rest of the plot weaves around the individual lives of these band members and their journey to maintain their camaraderie in the wake of their success. The screenplay brilliantly examines the impact of their sudden fame on their lives, relationships, and understanding of success, all seen through the lens of an era that was obsessed with 'beat' music. The film beautifully captures the high energy of the band’s epic transformation from a small-town group to an iconic band of the era.

Tom Hanks is Mr.White, a representative from Playtone Records who becomes their manager, navigating them through their rapid rise in the music industry. The dynamism and charisma of Hanks' performance bring pleasures in his role as a manipulative yet likable mentor.

Liv Tyler plays Faye Dolan, girlfriend of the band’s lead singer, who makes a journey of her own over the course of the movie. Tyler's portrayal captures the essence of a 60's pop icon – innocent, enchanting, yet not without her quiet strength. A young Charlize Theron appears in this film in a more minor role as Tina, the unsupportive girlfriend of Guy, offering a perfect counterpoint to Guy’s electrifying journey in music.

The film further sets its mark with its musical score, with most of the band's songs, including the title track, penned by the cast members themselves. The catchy tunes give a genuine taste of the mid-60's pop scene, adding to the overall aesthetic of the period. The performances, the costumes, and the set-design all contribute to creating an authentic atmosphere of the pop-dominated 60s.

That Thing You Do! also adds an element of humor in the mix, effectively highlighting the Beatles-esque mania that swept over fans during that era. The film not only showcases the chaos of sudden fame, but it also underlines the many ironies of the music industry, the media circus it brings along, and its unceremonial fade-outs.

Despite the high-energy, comedic, and musical elements, what sets this film apart is its exploration of personal dreams, relationships, the pitfalls of fame, and ultimately, the true spirit of music – weaving a rich tapestry of human emotions.

In conclusion, That Thing You Do! is an absolute gem in the musical comedy-drama genre. It boasts a memorable collection of songs that remain in your mind long after the credits roll. The nuanced and heartfelt performances by the star-studded cast, led by Tom Hanks, make it a classic tribute to the era of 60s pop music and a testament to Hanks' storytelling prowess. From laugh-out-loud comedic moments to poignant scenes that tug at your heartstrings, That Thing You Do! is truly a must-watch movie that resonates a warm sense of nostalgia and joy.