Where to Watch "17 Again"

"17 Again" is a comedic take on the age-old desire to revisit one's youth and make different choices. Released on April 17, 2009, this film was directed by Burr Steers and stars Zac Efron, Matthew Perry, and Leslie Mann.

Synopsis:

Mike O'Donnell, played by Matthew Perry, is a man in his late thirties facing a midlife crisis. He's estranged from his wife, distant from his kids, and regretful about decisions he made in his youth. After a chance encounter with a mysterious janitor, Mike finds himself magically transformed back to his 17-year-old self, played by Zac Efron.

Seizing the opportunity, he enrolls in the same high school as his kids to help guide them and perhaps correct some of his past mistakes. However, he soon realizes that while youth might offer a fresh perspective, some things are better left in the past.

Production Details:

Director: Burr Steers

Producers: Adam Shankman and Jennifer Gibgot

Screenplay Writer: Jason Filardi

The film was primarily shot in Los Angeles, California. One of the challenges during production was ensuring that Zac Efron and Matthew Perry both convincingly portrayed the same character, Mike O'Donnell, despite the age difference.

Budget and Box Office Performance: "17 Again" had a budget of around $40 million and was a box office success, grossing over $136 million worldwide.

Where to Stream

United States (US):

• Streaming: Max Amazon Channel, Max
• Buy: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Redbox, DIRECTV, AMC on Demand, Spectrum On Demand
• Free: None

Australia (AU):

• Streaming: Stan
• Buy: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Telstra TV, Fetch TV
• Free: None

Great Britain (GB):

• Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
• Buy: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube
• Free: None

Germany (DE):

• Streaming: RTL+
• Buy: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Sky Store, Rakuten TV, maxdome Store, MagentaTV, Microsoft Store, Pantaflix
• Free: None

Brazil (BR):

• Streaming: HBO Max
• Buy: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store
• Free: None

France (FR):

• Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
• Buy: None
• Free: None

Canada (CA):

• Streaming: Netflix, Super Channel Amazon Channel, Netflix basic with Ads
• Buy: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Amazon Video
• Free: None

Reception and Awards:

Critical Reception: Critics had mixed reviews about the film. While some praised Efron's performance and the movie's humor, others felt it was a predictable addition to the body-swap genre. However, it was generally agreed that the film was entertaining and had its heart in the right place.

Audience Reception: The movie was particularly popular among teens and young adults. Many appreciated the humor, the performances, and the film's underlying messages about family and second chances.

Awards and Nominations: Zac Efron received several award nominations for his role, including a Teen Choice Award for Choice Movie Actor: Comedy, which he won.

Trivia and Fun Facts:

1. Zac Efron and Matthew Perry worked closely to ensure their mannerisms and portrayals of Mike O'Donnell were consistent.
2. The role was a departure for Efron, who was trying to transition from his "High School Musical" image to more mature roles.
3. Thomas Lennon's character, Ned Gold, provided much of the film's comic relief, and many of his scenes were improvised.
4. The film's premise, while not entirely new, was praised for its fresh take on the body-swap genre, focusing more on family dynamics and personal growth.

"17 Again" is a delightful comedy that explores the idea of second chances, the complexities of family, and the timeless question of what one would do differently if given the chance to relive their youth. With a blend of humor, heart, and a touch of magic, it remains a favorite among fans of the genre.