It's a shame when you see a Broadway show that worked so well on stage and then watch it choke on screen. It's not a complete misfire as director Stephen Chbosky provides a faithful adaptation here, but the intimacy of the camera works against the more stylized elements of the story including how the songs get inserted into the narrative. It's true that Ben Platt is too old for the role now, and he accentuates Evan's awkwardness in a way the camera magnifies uncomfortably. The central conceit of the story still stings, but it plays out way too long despite a stellar supporting cast that includes Julianne Moore and Amy Adams. Both actresses can really sing with Moore beautifully nailing her solo, "So Big/So Small".

First of all, this film is a musical. If you can't handle dialogue being sung, don't see this film. Second, this is not a classic musical with rousing show tunes and great dance numbers. This is a movie that sings stream of consciousness thought and the thoughts are angst driven. Those two disclaimers might, possibly, have detoured most of the haters away from the film. Otherwise, this is a film about struggles, false solutions, anxiety and eventually courage. I have a friend who saw this on Broadway over a dozen times, and it has won Tonys, a Grammy, an Obie and an Olivier. Ben Platt's vocal talents soar. The cast is stellar and the performances are solid. I think the highest praise comes from people who resonate with the character themes for they can speak to you in a very personal way. However, those moments come and go. There is not a consistent pace. I give this film an 8 (for perfect moments) out of 10. {Musical Drama}

As someone who loved the show on stage (3 times), the film is especially disappointing. While the play had vitality and humor to balance it's deeply moving content, nearly every scene in the film leans into the mournful tone until the highs and lows become one long low.

And while the characters on stage were flawed people barely struggling to keep it together, Platt, Moore and Adams all seem oddly self-possessed.

If you haven't seen it on stage, please do.