A Review of The Tooth Fairy

by Kevin Gardner

If you’re looking for a family movie with main characters that have sparkling smiles, then you’ll want to sit down and enjoy the classic The Tooth Fairy movie with Dwayne Johnson and Julie Andrews. Released in 2010 and directed by Michael Lembeck, this family comedy will have something for everyone to enjoy.

The movie features a self-centered and bitter Derek Thompson (Dwayne Johnson), a pro hockey player. Derek steals a dollar from under his girlfriend’s kid’s pillow to gamble with his friends. Forgetting to put the dollar back later that night, the little girl (Tess) wakes up distraught that the tooth fairy didn’t leave her anything for her tooth. Derek tells the girl that the tooth fairy isn’t real, and the movie takes off from there into a comedic fantasy ride when summoned to serve as a tooth fairy for being a dream crusher.

The movie goes on to explore character growth and bonding while taking everyone on a laughable journey with Dwayne's brilliant smile. You have to wonder if he uses fluoride free toothpaste for his sparkling pearly-white grin, which of course, seems to make him the perfect candidate for his role in the film. Read on to get an in-depth review of why you should give this fun movie a try by yourself or with the whole family.

The Cast

Dwayne Johnson seems to excel at comedic relief, and The Tooth Fairy is no exception. His character is one of classic irony, starting with a bitter outlook and frustrated lot in life point of view. That begins to change as he experiences events that widen his perception of life. There are a couple serious moments that pull a viewer's emotional strings, but don't worry, Dwayne Johnson nails the goofy scenes with perfect humor and keeps the overall mood of the movie light and fun. 

Julie Andrews is always flawless with her acting roles, and there's no exception in this movie. She plays Lily, the head tooth fairy, with grace and charm. She has the perfect wit to deal with Derek’s jives and gives our main character a lot of time for reflection during his training.

Not to be left out, the remaining cast, Stephen Merchant, plays Tracy, Derek’s case tooth fairy caseworker. Joining him is Ashley Judd as Carly, Derek’s girlfriend, and Destiny Whitlock as Tess, Carly’s daughter. Last but not least, Chase Ellison plays Carly’s teenage son. Each of the actors gives the movie just the right amount of believability and fun.

Character Growth

We watch Derek dodge cats, dogs, and people (mostly unsuccessfully), during his role as a tooth fairy. Derek is consistently frustrated when things don’t go his way, preferring to muscle his way through hockey, avoiding bonding with his girlfriend’s son, and shortcutting life in general. His apologies are more than lackluster, and it’s clear, Derek only wants to get back to living life the way he always has. Through a set of narrow-minded blinders and fun.

There is a certain inspiration watching a character go through things that cause them emotional growth. Character growth happens in difficult situations when people face their fears and work on overcoming them. Dwayne Johnson portrays this role well, and the audience can’t help but cheer as he starts to mend his way and show depth behind the muscles and white smile.

Feel Good Ending

Laughing throughout a movie creates a fun, family time, but learning a lesson by the end makes it even sweeter. When Derek begins to mend his ways and build meaningful relationships with the people he’s close to, there’s a life lesson to be learned. Dreams are worth fighting for, and so are the connections with the people in your life.

If you enjoy comedy, character growth, and nuggets of life lessons in your movies, give this one a try. From laughing to thoughtful reflection, and just a happy ending, The Tooth Fairy has something the whole family will enjoy.