High School Musical

Back in January The Child was all agog for a made-for-TV movie that was going to premiere on the Disney Channel. “Made-for-TV”. The only thing worse than that is “straight to video”, right? The Spouse and I were not excited about spending a Friday evening watching some ridiculous Disney pap but sometimes you do things for your kid just because you love her. So we sat down to watch “High School Musical”. And we loved it.

For those of you without children of the requisite age, “High School Musical” is all the rage among the tweenage set. And with good reason. It’s a classic boy meets-loses-gets girl story but also treats of the adolescent struggle to step outside the box of high school cliques and follow your dreams. The story isn't remotely original but every generation has it's defining film and "HSM" could be it for the Zs.

The movie was made for a mere $5 million with an unknown cast. (Not a Hillary Duff or Raven to be had here). It has been viewed by over 30 million people. The soundtrack has sold 1.9 million copies as of this month, it has twice been #1 on the Billboard 200 and been certified platinum twice.

What makes it so good? The actors are all darling (and have decent chops). The music is completely singable. The dance numbers are terrific. (Every kid who has seen the film knows the moves to the final dance number). The movie ultimately works is because it is a true high school musical. Think “Grease”. In fact, the comparison is richly made in a number of the articles I’ve read. The finale “We’re All in This Together” will make you think of “We Go Together”. And that’s ok. “HSM” isn’t a rip-off. It is a charming and entertaining and, dare I say it, thoroughly wholesome without making your teeth hurt.

Here’s how good it is: the DVD was released yesterday and The Spouse brought it home per The Child’s request. She is going to want to watch it as soon as she gets home. But she won’t be getting the first crack at it. No. In a childless house, eating very adult food (the chipotle fish rocked), The Spouse and I popped it in the player. There we were, two 48 year old adults, watching, laughing, tapping our feet and (in my case) singing along. Maybe we’re complete nerds. But I double dog dare you to put “High School Musical” on your Netflix list, regardless of your child status, and if you don’t like it, well, I don’t want to hear about it. Just trust me on this. And if you don’t see it now that’s fine because the odds are extremely high that within the next 5-10 years you will be going to a high school production of this show. And you will love it.

Here’s a clip of what is, arguably, my favorite number in the film. If this doesn’t say “classic musical” I don’t know what does. Turn it up.