Better Nate Than Ever is a Disney+ original comedy musical… and it ain’t bad at all. Sure, it’s got the emotional complexity of a cardboard box and is set in a fantasy version of New York where a couple thirteen year olds can run away to and not get murdered, but that’s Disney for ya. You buy a ticket for the show, you get the show.

The flick is about a musical theater kid who just doesn’t fit in at home or school. He learns that there’s a casting call for a Lilo & Stitch musical in NYC so he sneaks off to the city to follow his dreams. Along with his best gal pal who he loves (but not in that way) and his aunt (played by Lisa Kudrow) who he runs into along the way.

Hey, this is a fangless piece of bubblegum pop electric… and it’s watchable and sweet. The kid does an admirable job as a singer and actor and gets some genuine and earnest moments. As far as Disney kids’ films go, it’s not as cringe or as dopey as it could have been. Your results may vary depending on your cynical blackened heart though.

The kid is played by newcomer Reuby Wood who has a list of acting credits as long as the Planck scale. This must be a big get for him. Lisa Kudrow is pretty great… playing a little of that expected Phoebe vibe but also giving us some real moments of acting charm. Aria Brooks plays Nate’s best pal and she’s brassy and charming… and I liked her character arc too. It’s a fun, game cast.

So, yeah, I’m sure this is not for everyone… but if you are likely to be suckered in – or genuinely love – films about musical theater and chasing your drams, it’s a sweet, wholesome watch. I’m just as cynical as the next Fight Club or Seven fan and there’s only so much Disney bubblegum I can stand, but this one worked for me.

Score: 82