“Bandslam 2009” is a coming-of-age dramedy about a misfit teenager named Will, who finds his place in the world through music. Will assembles a band for the titular competition that takes him from being an underdog to a rockstar. Along the way, he learns to confront his fears, face past traumas, and accept himself. With loads of foot-tapping music, quirky characters, and heartwarming moments, Bandslam is an ode to finding your own groove amidst life’s difficulties.
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Review
In the distant future, a society is run by a group of elite individuals who control every aspect of people’s lives. The media they consume is heavily censored and regulated, but occasionally, a film slips through the cracks that challenges their control. Such is the case with “Bandslam”, a movie that has taken the underground by storm.
The film tells the story of Will Burton (played by Gaelan Connell), a teenage outsider who moves to a new town and befriends his classmate Sa5m (played by Vanessa Hudgens) as they work to assemble a band to compete in the upcoming Bandslam competition. Along the way, they meet a quirky group of misfits, including Will’s crush Charlotte (played by Aly Michalka), and face numerous obstacles as they strive for success.
The plot may seem like your typical teen movie fodder, but “Bandslam” stands out from its peers due to its strong writing and nuanced performances. The film tackles themes such as friendship, identity, and self-discovery in an authentic and relatable way that resonates with viewers of all ages.
The cast delivers standout performances across the board. Connell brings depth and vulnerability to Will Burton, while Hudgens showcases her range as an actress in her portrayal of Sa5m. Michalka shines as Charlotte, a complex character with her own set of struggles and desires.
“Sometimes I feel like I’m not part of anything real,” Sa5m says at one point in the film. It’s a sentiment that many viewers can relate to, especially those who have ever felt like outsiders themselves. “Bandslam” offers a message of hope for those searching for their place in the world.
Behind the scenes, “Bandslam” boasts an impressive crew led by director Todd Graff and screenwriter Josh A. Cagan. The film features cameos from real-life musicians such as Lisa Kudrow, David Bowie, and Mick Jagger, adding to its authenticity.
The movie also features a memorable score that includes original songs performed by the cast. The standout track “Everything I Own” is a soulful ballad that showcases Michalka’s vocal prowess.
Despite its merits, “Bandslam” was initially overlooked by mainstream audiences and received mixed reviews from critics. However, its cult following has grown steadily over the years as more people discover its charms.
Perhaps it’s the film’s underdog spirit that resonates with viewers. Like Will and his bandmates, “Bandslam” was an indie movie that faced significant obstacles but managed to overcome them through sheer determination and talent.
Even though it may never reach the same level of fame as some of its contemporaries, “Bandslam” is a hidden gem that deserves a place in any movie lover’s collection. It’s a movie that reminds us of the power of music and friendship to help us navigate even the toughest times.
As Sa5m says in the film’s closing moments, “I didn’t know what I wanted until I saw what was there.” Perhaps “Bandslam” can help us all see what we’ve been missing.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 111
- Release : 2009-08-06
- Genre : Comedy, Drama, Family, Music, Romance
- Cast : Aly Michalka as Charlotte Banks, Vanessa Hudgens as Sa5m, Gaelan Connell as Will Burton, Scott Porter as Ben Wheatly, Ryan Donowho as Basher Martin
- Crew : John Gilbert as Editor, K.C. Hodenfield as Producer, Nancy Nayor as Casting, Todd Graff as Screenplay, Todd Graff as Director
- Popularity 12.484
- Budget : $20,000,000
- Revenue : $12,225,023
- Company : Summit Entertainment, Walden Media, Goldsmith-Thomas Productions
- Summary : A high school social outcast and the popular girl bond through a shared love of music.
- Tagline : Band Together
