5/12/2015

First Trailer for 'Jem and the Holograms' Shows the Cost of Fame


The original '80s cartoon Jem and the Holograms had something of a futuristic quality to it. There were big adventures, frequent action sequences, and a holographic super-computer known as Synergy. But none of that seems to be the case in the live-action film by Jon M. Chu (GI Joe: Retaliation), as the first trailer rocks out in a style that's a lot more grounded.

Aubrey Peeples is lead singer Jerrica Benton aka Jem, who suddenly becomes an overnight sensation along with her sisters Kimber (Stefanie Scott), Shana (Aurora Perrineau), and Aja (Hayley Kyoko). The girls may have hit it big, but the fame comes with problems none of the girls could have anticipated. Basically, this looks like Josie and the Pussycats (which I love) dialed down a couple of notches, and if it helps sell a bunch of Jem action figures Hasbro will be pleased. Chu has proven good at bumping up merchandise sales.

Also starring Molly Ringwald, Juliette Lewis, and Ryan Guzman, Jem and the Holograms opens October 23rd.