Lesli Linka Glatter directs Christina Ricci, Gaby Hoffmann and Thora Birch in the 70s set coming of age drama with big star modern day bookends.

A sweet little film that is not really focussed, funny, authentic or emotionally satisfying enough to compete with its clear inspiration: Stand By Me. The cast make it more than an interesting curio though and I’m not talking about Demi Moore, Rosie O’Donnell, Brendan Fraser or Hank Azaria in extended cameos. Ricci, Hoffmann and Birch were all impressive child stars who despite interesting work in their late teens have not managed to keep their momentum going. Now and Then stands as a testament to their charm and currently untapped potential.

5