Review of Bandslam (2009) by Xou X — 14 Oct 2009

Bandslam (2009).

Running Time: 111 Minutes.

Rated: PG.

You look at the promo photo and you think of another High School Musical ripoff without the Zac. But with its many pleasantries, there is more to this then Vanessa. There is definantly something more then just high school drama.

The film starts off with Will Burton(Gaelan Connell) getting pushed around by the school bully and being called DUI. Then theres his protective mother Karen(Lisa Kudrow) who promises to move out of Cincinatti into New Jersey. Shes almost to overprotective to a point of being uncomfortable. Like during one scene where she walks in on her son taking a shower and asking how he feels. Not awkward enough? But despite all of that, who wouldnt want Lisa Kudrow to be their mother. But now in New Jersey where the new school doesnt seem all that better and the greatest event is not the state championship or the prom but Bandslam. A battle of the bands you might say. Something you play on your xbox everyday becomes reality. But nothing is complete without two girls who seemingly becomes the love triangle of Will. One is Sa5m(Vanessa) and one is Charlotte(Alyson Mchalka). Charlotte was once popular and now seems desperate. Sa5m is lonely but independent. Two girls who are apparently talented in the musical arts. So one forms a band while the other just tags along.

Eventually you end up with a group called I cant go on, I go on. The most awkward groupie name since KISS. Everything comes out pretty formulatic and the chemistry doesnt seem to be there but a lively performance by Connell and Mchalka saves Vanessa from being tainted by her still forgettable performances on the big screen. No Zac means Vanessa is invisible and her character almost seems invisible and doesnt seem to be much of deal until Will comes in and mixes things up with one of the most original kissing scenes I have ever seen. Ever "petted" a girl before? Didnt think so but Will did.

Bandslam is a suprise filled of human detractions and the development of friendships that dares many courtships. Its poignant mind frees itself from the many high school cliches and instead delivers a seemingly charming film that it is. Its maxed out problem comes from Vanessa herself and she doesnt do much to make this film any more charming as her ability to sing is the only remark of chance she is ever gonna get in this film. But ignore the disney girl and its melodramatic approach on teenage life seems all to relatable.

Bandslam is no grandslam but for what its worth, fine enough to enjoy.

3/5.

Written By: Xou Xiong.