Last week, I was able to see a screening of “Bandslam” starring Disney stars Vanessa Hudgens and Aly Michalka. From the clips I saw, I wasn’t really sure what to expect of the movie or the characters. Let me just say I was very pleased with this movie. I loved it!
If you love music as much as I do, then this movie will truly speak to you. I know that may sound corny, but seriously, it’s all about the music.
Let’s talk about the characters real quick, without me giving too much away:
Lisa Kudrow – She’s the protective mother who is confused by her son’s change in behavior. She shows what most single parents of teenagers are experiencing…confusion. She had some great lines and at times I saw a bit of Phoebe from Friends. I just love her.
Gaelan Connell – He is absolutely adorable. He’s the nerd in school who uses his love of music to become, well, almost cool. Throughout the movie, you’ll find out more and more about his character. They don’t throw his whole story at you all at once.
Aly Michalka – That girl can sing! Her character discovers Gaelan and that he’s one of those nice guys. She sees him helping a girl who got knocked down and she runs out and instantly recruits him for a little job. You also see her character go through quite a few changes. Changes that will make you cry and also a little mad.
Vanessa Hudgens – This is a role like none other for Vanessa. There is not a hint of Gabriella in there, except that voice. Vanessa’s character’s name is Sa5m and the yes, the 5 is silent. As you have probably seen in the previews, Vanessa’s character and Gaelan’s character seem to like each other. I won’t go into too much detail about their relationship because I don’t want to ruin anything for you!
Overall, I thought this was one great movie. I talked to several other media folks who were screening the movie with me and they all seemed to like it. Everyone agreed on one thing, they liked the music. Not only did I like the music, but the story line is just good. It shows how hard being different in high school can be. It shows what those considered less popular have to go through and it shows how one person’s mistake can leave you labeled for ever.
“Bandslam” premieres in theaters on Friday, August 14th. I highly recommend you go see it!
Image Credit: Summit Entertainment

Hey Julie…Did you see me? I was a featured extra in this movie…I played an “emo” kid. It was filmed in Austin, TX, right up the road from me. Well, hopefully the scenes that I’m in didn’t end up on the cutting room floor.
Well take care…I hope all is well.
Phillip.
http://www.phillipwolf.com
http://www.youtube.com/wolfkcpk
http://www.youtube.com/benjamminflow
[...] you like their band’s new name? Did you see Aly Michalka in Bandslam? That girl can [...]
i thought this film was excellent so much so i want the lyrics to “someone to fall back on”. was a last minuet thing to see at the cinema and how pleased i was. soundtrack was awsome with vibes from all quarters and it wasnt totally cheesy when it came to plots or scripting. Good to see musicians getting it on the best way we know how to.
if anyon can point me to where i can find lyrics i want to cover the above song with my band.
lets have more of this friends in the USA!!!!