Dear Channing’s abs: Thank you

‘Dear John’
Director: Lasse Hallstrom
Stars: Channing Tatum, Amanda Seyfried
Rating: PG-13
Grade: ➊➋➌➍➎

It’s a given that “Dear John” follows the Nicholas Sparks adaptation formula like a money-hungry puppy. Whimsical girl (the just-plain-enough Amanda Seyfried) meets all-American soldier (Channing Tatum, aka G.I.-freaking-Joe); soldier gets deployed; mushy, breathless letters ensue. This is what the very rich novelist, also responsible for the “The Notebook” and “A Walk to Remember,” does best.

So what “Dear John” really comes down to, and should probably be judged on, is the mesmerizing squareness of Tatum’s jaw. It does fantastic work here, remaining clenched enough to suggest some uneasiness behind a tough-guy Special Forces front (he’s troubled, he needs her!)  while providing a rugged vehicle for a lazy Southern drawl (he has an accent!). Tatum’s chiseled abs, supported here by enormous snuggly shoulders, also turn in a fine performance.