Bandslam (2009)

Bandslam is a solid tween offering centered around David Bowie-writing freshman, but well-versed music geek Will (Gaelan Connell) who is convinced to manage the popular senior girl’s rock group. Helping the band win the school’s battle of the bands is one thing. Managing this new relationship with Sa5m (Vanessa Hudgens), a girl who shares Will’s passion, is another.

Bandslam, though predictable, is surprisingly good and without the cloying melodrama of High School Musical. The corny humor balances the syrupy drama to create a likeable movie. It’s more Nick & Norah for the 10-13 set.

Newcomer Gaelan Connell makes Will an honest dork who knows his CBGB from his BeeGees and how influencial The Sex Pistols were to a certain Irish band. Vaness Hudgens is about as interesting as a brick, but her part was underwriten. Lisa Kudrow plays Will’s mom convincingly.

David Bowie’s cameo was my reason for seeing Bandslam. But as I see it, the witty and overall authentic delivery of the entire cast made 111 minutes very enjoyable.