Overall, High School Musical 2 is exactly what it is supposed to be - great Summer entertainment. The music is catchy. The dancing and choreography is energetic. No one expects Emmy-worthy scriptwriting or acting, but both do well to make viewing a lot of fun. By the end I found myself singing right along and wanting to get up and dance, which makes up for a few eye-rolling moments. I also found that there were some great spiritual lessons throughout the movie, and would recommend the movie to almost any Christian teens that just wants to see some good, clean fun.
- Upbeat music
- Good life and spiritual lessons
- Fun movie for young teens
- Supporting characters get more screentime
- Acting thin
- Predictable story
- Where to Watch: Disney Channel (check local listings for details)
- Cast: Zach Efron, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale, Corbin Bleu, Monique Coleman, Lucas Grabeel, Kaycee Stroh, Olesya Rulin
- Director/Choreographer: Kenny Ortega
- Genre: Comedy/Musical
- Soundtrack Available from Walt Disney Records
Plot Synopsis:
High School Musical 2 begins with Summer Break for Troy, Gabriella, and the rest of the East High Wildcats. However, Sharpay (Ashley Tisdale) has set her eyes on Troy Bolton (Zach Efron) and plans to steal him away from his girlfriend, Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens). Her plan to get Troy hired at her country club backfires as Troy gets the rest of his classmates hired, too. Sharpay modifies her scheme so she can sing with Troy in the annual talent show. Then the Wildcat antics begin...
Christian Applications:
The teens of East High are dealing with some of the same issues that Christian teens deal with every day - just in a little more cleaned up, musical form. Sharpay lies and schemes to get what she wants. Troy finds himself getting tempted by promises from Sharpay's family and the university that will further his basketball career, but jeopardize his friendships and his relationship with Gabriella.
The theme of friendship and loyalty is strong in the movie, and it guides teens toward understanding what it means to honor your promises. It also focuses on the importance of family. While Sharpay rejects her brother and puts him down, in the end there is redemption and a family connection that honors those ties. Troy's father The movie also focuses on not judging people by what they have done in the past, but actually getting to know them first.
What to Watch Out For:
The movie is not directly Christian, but there are few elements that would offend most Christian teens or their parents. However, there are some elements that some parents may not like.
**SPOILER!!** The Troy/Gabriella moment many loyal High School Musical fans have been waiting for actually happens. It may not be what some Christian teen parents may be waiting for, and the kiss may offend some.
