Built around the back catalogue of pop giants Abba, the show has been brought to the screen starring familiar and well-respected acting faces, Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth and Stellan Skarsgard.

The male leads play three potential fathers to Donna Sheridan's (Meryl Streep) lost daughter Sophie (Amanda Seyfried).

Just in time for her upcoming marriage, Sophie sends three wedding invitations, I Have a Dream, to the men –– any of whom she believes may be her father.

From three cities across the globe, they set off to return to the island where they all met Donna Sheridan –– who enchanted each of them 20 years earlier.

When they arrive, Sophie believes she will know which one it is, but she doesn't, so she tries to hide her reason for inviting them and their presence on the island.

Donna is shocked when she discovers the men and Sophie tries to get to know each of them as the wedding looms and fun, sadness and singing ensue.

Mamma Mia's cinematic incarnation is a lightweight but surprisingly delightful affair which cannot help but pull you in, possibly kicking and screaming, to its slightly surreal and extremely enjoyable world.

The film has some great characters well brought to life by the cast.

Streep, who has proven an okay singer in previous films, really brings out Donna's eccentricities and charm. One of the great actresses, Streep still commands the screen in her later years.

A chorus of slightly stereotypical Greek islanders provide backing and entertainment as the story unfolds and every member of the cast pulls their weight, even though you may cringe at first when they start singing.

The male stars –– Brosnan, Firth and Skarsgard –– embrace their roles and all appear to be having as much fun making the film as most Abba fans will watching it.

However, a real joy is Amanda Seyfried, previously seen in Mean Girls, who is superb as Sophie and really carries the film. Her genuine chemistry with the older actors around her is a joy and she also has a standout singing voice.

The film is not without faults. The men are a bit croaky in the singing department, which may irritate some viewers, although it arguably adds to the charm.

And the plot seems contrived at times. This can be forgiven, however, as it is driven by the songs.

Instead of fitting the music in with a solid plot, the filmmakers choose to make the plot revolve around hits such as Super Trouper and Take a Chance on Me –– a challenge in itself.

Mamma is cringe-worthy and people who do not normally watch musicals or like Abba will probably be rushing for the exit.

But for those who do Mamma Mia is a hugely enjoyable feel-good musical that will no doubt have you leaving the cinema feeling happier and with a few familiar songs back in your head.