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Who would want to see a movie about four teenage girls going shopping for pants? Who would sit still for a story about a pair of pants that fits any girl that tries them on?

Teen girls, obviously. But what's surprising is that their mothers, brothers, fathers, and boyfriends are sitting still for The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, the new film by Ken Kwapis, adapted from the novel by Ann Brashares. As these girls explore their varying stories, celebrating their friendship and planning for different futures, they find themselves in engaging, challenging situations that elevate this film above others in its genre. In short, critics say that Sisterhood is a case of one film fits all.

Most Christian critics liked it, and are encouraging viewers to try the film on for size.

David DiCerto (Catholic News Service) says this "sweet but contrived film, despite its bubblegum title and breezy Judy Blume veneer, tackles heavy issues like divorce, death, ethnic identity and teen sexuality (which may be inappropriate for younger teens) but ultimately imparts a life-affirming message about friendship and family."

Lisa Rice (Crosswalk) describes it as "a sweet movie with adventure, romance, and a compelling picture of the power of friendship in the very real issues of teen life."

Michael Elliott (Movie Parables) says the filmmakers "fully understand their target audience and push all the expected buttons to make the experience especially meaningful for them. To their credit, they push those buttons respectfully by honestly depicting the depth of emotional pain and joy that young women experience. All four actresses do commendable work and capture the essence not only of their characters but the bond of friendship their characters enjoy."

Steven Isaac (Plugged In), on the other hand, isn't much impressed, saying it's "sweet and sappy, but it just doesn't mean very much."

Pants also pleases mainstream critics. Scott Moore (Washington Post) says, "The emotional story and fine acting are enough to make this a must-see movie for teen girls. The real surprise is that they can make a grown man cry."

Andrew Coffin (World) writes that the film "employs an abundance of clichés and traffics in some frustrating Hollywood conventions (notably, quick-fix syndrome). But the film also reaches for depths of emotion and circumstance that will almost certainly resonate with many in its intended audience–and even some outside that limited sphere."

© Camerin Courtney 2005, subject to licensing agreement with Christianity Today International. All rights reserved. Click for reprint information.

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