Bandslam Movie Review

Living in Cincinati was not fun for Will Burton, a somewhat nerdy music buff who's obsessed with writing personal letters to David Bowie. He got teased and ridiculed for the mistakes his father made in the past. But when his mom moves them to New Jersey, Will gets a fresh start. No more name-calling. No more wallowing in a friendless depression. The teenagers at his new school open his eyes to a new life—a life full of friendships, popularity and, of course, Bandslam.

The Glory Dogs

Blamslam is “Texas high school football big” according to Sa5m (the five is silent), Will’s new Human Studies partner. It’s a battle of the bands where the coolest high school bands compete to win a record deal. This year, Will, being the music expert that he is, agrees to help The Glory Dogs compete in Bandslam. But the competition is stiff. Even with Will as band manager, they only have a slim chance of winning. Meanwhile, a school bully digs up the secrets of Will’s past and uses them against him.

The Cast

You’ll recognize lots of stars in this film: Aly Michalka from Phil of the Future costars as the popular former cheerleader, Charlotte. High School Musical’s Vanessa Anne Hudgens plays a supporting role as the cute, and often monotone, Sa5m. Lisa Kudrow, better known as Pheobe from Friends, also plays a significant part as Will’s mother. The only person you may not recognize is the star himself, Gaelan Connell, who plays Will Burton.

The Bottom Line

This isn’t like High School Musical, despite Vanessa Anne Hudgens’s role in the film. It’s a great high school dramedy—part comedy, part drama—that deals with some tough teenage lessons, while delivering some awesome music. Bandslam is definitely a must-see for teens.

Bandslam Rating:

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