Nicholas Sparks is known for his gushy romantic novels that have been turned into films. The Last Song is the latest tear jerker to come to the big screen and the first written specifically for it. Miley Cyrus stars as 17 year old Ronnie, a rebellious young girl struggling to find her place in the world. When she is sent to her father’s house in Savannah, GA for the summer, she becomes entangled with Will (Liam Hemsworth), a local boy who is instantly attracted to her. In your typical Nicholas Sparks fashion, it’s a summer filled with romance, heartache, and everything in between.

The Last Song appears very similar to Sparks’ other novel- turned-film Dear John. Both take place on the beach and feature young lovers who try to discover who they are. The only real difference is the army factor and the fact that The Last Song focuses more on the female role rather than the male one.

The film has all the signs of a cheesy romance novel rolled up into about 2 hours. From that initial spark to the inevitable complications that come with love, The Last Song appears to show that perfect dream of falling in love on the beach while the waves crash against you and the wind blows in your hair, and blah, blah, blah.

Of course, everything isn’t butterflies and lollipops as there is plenty of heartache. Ronnie has to face her father, who left her and the family three years ago after a nasty divorce, along with the pressure to live up to her musical expectations. Be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster as the trailers only really show one side of the story. If you’re familiar with the book, then you’ll know what I’m talking about.

Probably one of my biggest problems with the movie isn’t even with the story or the acting but with the filming. The Last Song takes place in Savannah, GA and Will works at the GA Aquarium. Now, almost everyone who has been to Atlanta in the past few years knows that the GA Aquarium is about a 4 hour drive from Savannah and not right down the street as the film presents. It’s this little detail that’s more annoying than anything. Perhaps it’s just cause I’m from Atlanta myself that is bothers me so much.

The Last Song is a tearjerker that aims directly at your emotions, pulling on them until it gets a response. It’s watchable but difficult to take seriously because of the numerous clichés throughout. Ladies will most likely want to go and see it and guys will undoubtedly get dragged along. Just be sure to bring the tissues.