My initial thought as I walked out of “Book Club: The Next Chapter” was whether there was even a script involved. The plot is so flimsy that it feels like an extended, unscripted get-together among four very likable actresses who are well past seventy. What’s almost amusing about this is that it doesn't really matter, because writer and director Bill Holderman clearly intended to make this movie for a specific audien…

It feels like a way for four performers to enjoy an extravagant vacation in Italy, with someone else footing the bill, all wrapped around a story that doesn't have much substance. The narrative begins as this group reunites after lockdown for their regular book club meeting. It’s during this gathering that "Vivian," portrayed by Jane Fonda, reveals she’s planning to marry "Arthur" (Don Johnson), despite having previo…