|
The original High School Musical
TV Movie (which aired on Disney's cable channel) became a worldwide
phenomenon - breaking all kinds of ratings and CD sales records. It's
no surprise either that the spin-offs (Jump In!) and sequel (High School Musical 2)
were monster hits as well. It's a movie that's made Zac Efron and
Vanessa Anne Hudgens household names, and more than likely, lined the
wallet of more than one Disney exec with a slew of crisp $100 bills.
High School Musical: The Concert
seems to be another piece of perfectly marketed kiddie fodder as well.
The sheer size of the crowd is a sight to see, just think - over 10,000
screaming tweens a night. Not only is that an astonishing experience
for the young cast, but it's a hell of a lot of revenue!
But,
you know what (all money & corporate greed aside) - they certainly
give some bang for your buck, because there is a fat chance in hell
you will find a youngster that won't enjoy this.
The
concert features all of the songs from the film - which, admittedly, I
may have started to hum throughout the DVD - all of which are
energetically performed by the original cast members Corbin Bleu (who
is also set for big things thanks to Jump In!),
Ashley Tisdale, Lucas Grabeel, Monique Coleman and Vanessa Anne Hudgens
(although a noticeable absentee is the blue eyed charmer Zac Efron who
was filming Hairspray at the time).
The
dance routines are fantastic, and you can't help but feel that every
second that goes by is inspiring another 8 year old girl to start
dancing lessons. The costumes, at times, seem a tad raunchy for the age
group (especially blonde bombshell Ashley Tisdale, but hey, you've got
to give the Dad's a reason to watch as well as the kids - don't you!).
Theres
also interviews and behind the scenes footage spliced throughout the
concert, which keeps things rolling along in between set changes, and -
to be honest - some of the sets and lighting are just fantastic.
The
major problem, from an adult stand point, seems to be the blatant
promotion of the talent (there is more inappropriate "Now here's a song
from (insert contracted Disney teen being exploited)'s new
album" than you can poke a stick at - but you know what, that's
the sort of thing the kids want to see more of.
And, at the end of the day, whats more important - your childs happiness or your hip pocket?
EXTRAS
Plenty
of extras on offer here - the most interesting of which is
a backstage tour with the 'born to host' Lucas Grabeel who shows
what life on the road is like (and, you know what, it ain't to shabby
at all!).
There's some further cross promotion with the show's
opening act, Jordan Pruitt, whose entire set is included here - and is
certain to sell a few extra CD's.
The kids will find the
interactive feature (which puts you in the
director's chair and lets you produce your own version of the concert)
a bit exciting, and most importantly - keep them distracted long enough
for your to get some R&R. Conclusion:
Movie 70% Extras: 60%
|
