Sam Kindseth
Dylan Everett
Tiera Skovbye
Alyssa Lynch
Julian Works
Taylor Russell

Ron McGee

TV Movie
2014
Comedy, Drama
Lifetime

TV-PG

Lifetime’s “The Unauthorized Saved by the Bell Story” may be a mildly diverting watch for many fans of the Saturday-morning kids’ show on which it is based (emphasis on “may”). That pretty much sums up every reason to watch it.

Expectedly, it’s poorly written and acted, but it’s not as bad as it could’ve been. It’s bad in a forgivable kind of way, I guess. Surprisingly, it doesn’t have a campy sensibility. A part of me wanted it to go further into camp and ridiculousness for the fun of it, but I respect them for resisting the urge; I don’t agree with that choice, though. Regardless, the creators are well aware of what this is (they don’t have lofty ambitions): a not-so authentic behind-the-scenes look at “Saved by the Bell.”

The director uses hand-held cameras and muted lighting to create a look to match that. There are many awkwardly executed moments here, but that’s a reflection of the TV show itself. The missing ingredient in the movie is the show’s charm. That’s what made all of the show’s flaws forgivable.

Since that charming energy is missing in this movie, there’s no zip, which results in disjointed pacing. Also, the paint-by-the-numbers approach to plot structure (chronological with requisite flashbacks) is too familiar. They could have mixed things up a bit to provide a fresher take. Another knock is that most of the actors don’t resemble the real people whom they portray. Only Screech and Mr. Belding somewhat look like Screech and Mr. Belding. By the way, Dustin Diamond (Screech in the TV show) is one of the executive producers of this movie. So, his involvement, along with his book about his so-called experiences filming the show, allow the filmmakers to present the story from Screech’s perspective; I didn’t expect that. It’s a smart yet self-serving choice.

Overall, “The Unauthorized Saved by the Bell Story” is a mixed bag. Many will find it dull. Many fans will be upset by its supposed inaccuracies. But if you remember what it was like to grow up watching this show, then it will provide a trip down memory lane. However, since they don’t have enough fun with the subject matter, that trip may not be as satisfying as it sounds.

Verdict: OKish to Pretty Bad (Dull)

About: (Source: unauthorized)

Lifetime takes a nostalgic look back at the ‘90s TV show that changed the landscape of Saturday mornings with America’s favorite teens. “The Unauthorized Saved by the Bell Story” delves into the experiences of six unknown young actors placed into the Hollywood spotlight, exposing the challenges of growing up under public scrutiny while trying to maintain the squeaky clean image of their popular characters both on and off-screen.

With casting by the original series’ casting director, Robin Lippin (“Lizzie McGuire”), Dylan Everett (“Degrassi: The Next Generation”) is set to play Mark-Paul Gosselaar in the role of mischievous ringleader Zack Morris. Sam Kindseth (“Shameless”) is Dustin Diamond, everyone’s favorite geek and loveable sidekick Screech. Julian Works (“Paranormal Activity,” “Modern Family”) fills the shoes of superstar Mario Lopez as the hunky jock A.C. Slater. Alyssa Lynch (“The High Jumping Witch”) plays the role of America’s favorite sweetheart, Tiffani-Amber Thiessen, who originated the part of Kelly Kapowski. Tiera Skovbye (“Supernatural,” “Girl in Progress”) takes on the role of talented beauty Elizabeth Berkley and her beloved character Jessie Sapano. Rounding out the cast is Taylor Russell McKenzie (“Blink”) who will portray Lark Voorhies and her on-screen persona, the privileged Lisa Turtle.

“The Unauthorized Saved by the Bell Story” is produced by Front Street Pictures and Ringaling Productions Ltd. for broadcast on Lifetime. The movie is executive produced by Harvey Kahn (“Flowers in the Attic”) and Stephen Bulka (“Dear Mom, Love Cher”). The film is directed by Jason Lapeyre (“Restless Virgins”) and the teleplay is written by Ron McGee (“The Nine Lives of Chole King”).