Review: Disarming 'Better Nate Than Ever' is Fluffy Family Fun

"If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." And more power to ya!

When a theatre-lovin' Pennsylvania seventh-grader doesn't get a semi-coveted role in the school play, what is Plan B? Sneaking off to New York City to audition for a big-time Broadway musical, of course. A series of credulity-stretching coincidences propels the plot of "Better Late Than Ever." You're likely to have fun following the unlikely tale of Nate (endearing Rueby Wood plays the would-be star aborning). He arrives and survives with very little money, big dreams, and an equally enthused female friend/classmate (amiable Aria Brooks). Is there a budding romance for the buds? There are hints that she'd like that, and hints they'll need to check the future gaydar readings.

It's a feel-good Disney+, cute-plus movie with Manhattan as its own kind of Disneyland Adventureland, amplified by a couple of splashy fantasy musical numbers. Here are two friends in a family-friendly environment, where pluck and luck will get you far... or at least as far as the subway will take you when you don't have enough for the fare

But the workers on the other side of the turnstiles let you in for free. Why? Fortunately, they recognize you from a very viral video on Tik-Tok featuring your impromptu singing with street musicians who just happen to play "On Broadway" when you pass by, and George Benson, who had a hit record with it, just happens to be nearby to compliment you. That's almost as much against the odds as it would be if, while in line at the audition, Nate had run into the only NYC resident he knows... which, of course, happens, too. Portrayed with flair and non-cloying sensitivity by Lisa Kudrow, she's his mom's estranged sister, an actress, who hasn't seen him in years, but she just might be meant to be a mentor.

Young Mr. Wood beams, positivity telegraphing delight and/or surprise with eyes bulging on cue, lopsided grins, and an appealing "Aw, shucks" persona. Directed warmly by Tim Federele – his script based on his own novel –"Better Nate Than Ever" is a valentine to show biz; lines reference musicals such as "Wicked" (two of its original cast alumni, Michelle Federer and Norbert Leo Butz, married in real life, are welcome cast presences as Nate's parents). As the starry-eyed boy's initially dismissive older brother, Joshua Bassett charismatically plays a nimble character arc.

Each time Nate meets a seemingly insurmountable obstacle, we are fairly sure he'll move ahead due to resourcefulness, Lady Luck, amazing timing, or someone pulling for guy because he's so ingratiating and wants his stage dreams so darn fervently. You may well find yourself rooting for him, too.

"Better Nate Than Ever" debuts on Disney+ on April 1.