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Hello Cinephiles,
Today we’re talking about the 2009 film Bandslam.
Story
Beat for beat the same basic story as so many other teen movies. (Could overlap 90% of the plot with Sky High.)
Is is exactly what it says on the tin, a battle of the bands movie. It’s a great formula, but not original or clever.
Score: 0
Characters
Where the story loses points for originality, the characters, and actors, make up for it. They are much better developed then most movies of the same time. The kids and the setting feel real.
Bonus points for not having a full love triangle and not making the surprise twist a “she was the villain the whole time” twist.
Score: 1
Dialogue
The dialogue is pretentious, but in the way that teens feel about pretention and not an adults forced shallow concept. They talk about music and make real points that is part of the story and character instead of window dressing. There’s an odd honesty to the dialogue that makes it feel real despite trying too hard.
There are also plenty of pithy and funny lines.
Score: 1
Visuals and Music
There’s a gritty 1990’s grunge scene camera style that I really like. Mostly it’s a little washed out, but certain colours are extra vivid. It’s a memorable effect that reminds me of old grunge and punk music videos.
The original songs are fun and the overall soundtrack is filled with some great music. I’d love the soundtrack.
Score: 1
Fun
There were the usual angsty/cringy moments where the main dude does the dumb thing, but in this it’s him following his passion not his dick. Doesn’t make it any easier to watch, but the ending and the music make it well worth while.
Score: 0.5
Overall
An essential film in the cannon of the “Battle of the Bands” genre. It’s smart and sweet with fantastic characters, but suffers from a formulaic plot and too much angst.
Final Score: 3.5 Stars out of 5