The film deals with that whole story behind teenager Will who seems to have no good place to live. Will decides to move to a different location and a different town as he tries to be a new rock band. Now, they seem to realize their dreams and compete against the best in the biggest event of the year and in their lives.
Tidy, heartfelt direction by Todd Graff (Camp); astute song references; and a David Bowie cameo transcend the formula underpinnings and keep Bandslam buoyant, gratifying and, yes, rocking.
New York Press
August 19, 2009
The barely hyped Bandslam must settle for simply being the best American movie this summer.
Bandslam is hardly the definition of a great movie, but it is pleasant and bright and doesn't insult its audience's intelligence. And that's as rare and welcome as a well-crafted three-minute pop song.
Sacramento News & Review
August 20, 2009
The music is the movie's best feature, but even that's not much...
Though it wears out its welcome as it teeters rather than rocks toward the finish line, there is something inherently enticing in the old "let's put on a show" formula it utilizes.
Bandslam consistently exceeds current teen-flick standards thanks to its snarky humour, its strong musical sequences and its ability to convey the excitement the characters feel both about performing and forming new friendships.
