At the Movies with Fatwayne

I may as well confess from the start that I did not see either of the prior TV productions of HSM. As a result, I really did not know what to expect and went in with an open mind. I just could not help getting the feeling that I was watching a chaste Grease with less star power.

The kids in this movie are talented dancers but the vocals of the leads left a lot to be desired. On the other hand, when the production numbers came around they were entirely enjoyable. The sets were cleverly conceived and colorful.

The story follows seniors Troy (Zac Efron) and his girlfriend, Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens) in their last year of high school. Gabriella is the force behind the annual school musical and talks her jock boyfriend into participating. It turns out that Troy just might like the stage as much as the basketball court. This musical is the Senior Play and the ultimate focus of the story.

In between rehearsing for the play we have the usual adolescent problems. Did I say problems? These kids live in lavish houses, drive beautiful cars (except Troy’s junk heap pickup), dress to kill and have parties to die for. No, there is nothing here to be concerned about as far as our character’s futures go. I’m certain that everything will work out just fine for them. I happen to enjoy musicals and so this was bearable for me. I did think that some of the kids could have had their vocal performances dubbed by someone who could actually carry a tune. But what do I know, I actually enjoyed John Travolta’s singing in Grease!

If you are forced to attend this movie with your youngsters, fear not. I pretty much enjoyed myself during the musical numbers and concentrated on my popcorn the rest of the time. It is entirely survivable.

Rated G

Fatwayne’s rating: