How a 2010 family film turned Beverly Cleary's beloved literary sisters into cinema stars
In short: Ramona and Beezus brought the iconic Quimby sisters to the big screen in a 2010 adaptation. While the title nods to the 1955 novel, the film weaves together plotlines from later books in the series, offering a wholesome, sunny look at the chaotic, heartfelt life of a creative third-grader.
Directed by Elizabeth Allen, the film stars Joey King as the imaginative Ramona Quimby and Selena Gomez as her older sister, Beatrice, known by the family nickname Beezus. Although the title references Beverly Cleary's 1955 book Beezus and Ramona, the screenplay by Laurie Craig and Nick Pustay draws its primary narrative arc from the sequels Ramona Forever, published in 1984, and Ramona's World, released in 1999. The production, which cost $15 million, was filmed in Vancouver and released by Fox 2000 Pictures.
The story follows the Quimby family through a period of transition, marked by Robert Quimby losing his job and the family facing financial strain. Ramona’s attempts to help often result in humorous mishaps, from a disastrous school portrait to a kitchen fire. These domestic struggles are balanced by the rekindling romance between Aunt Beatrice and Hobart, a subplot that culminates in an impromptu wedding. The film explores themes of resilience and family unity, ultimately seeing Robert secure a new position as an art teacher at Ramona's school.
Upon its release on July 23, 2010, the film received generally positive feedback, with critics praising the performances of King and Gomez. It holds a 71% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and earned an A- grade from CinemaScore audiences. Despite a modest opening, the film eventually grossed $26.6 million, successfully surpassing its production budget. The project also featured a soundtrack including the promotional single 'Live Like There's No Tomorrow' by Selena Gomez & the Scene, further cementing its place in the pop culture landscape of the era.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Ramona and Beezus
- Also: Wikidata — Ramona and Beezus · CC0
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