The plot of Bandslam is a familiar one: a teen-targeted competition for a recording contract attracts a bevy of talented young competitors, rivalries emerge and friendships are made and broken (still leaving plenty of room for music and fledgling romance). What surprises is the believable dialogue and the freshness of the performers, such as Vanessa Hudgens (from the High School Musical franchise). Friends star Lisa Kudrow is credible as the mother of Will (Gaelan Connell), the new kid in town who teams up with popular girls Charlotte and Sa5m (Sam - the five "is silent") to start a band. Though the singing isn't always great (there are a few duff notes), the occasional rough edge is preferable to computer-enhanced perfection. Director Todd Graff, a former actor, has taken a rather tired formula and made something fresh, silly and sparky - with room for a sequel.

A new kid in town assembles a fledgling rock band — together, they achieve their dreams and compete against the best in the biggest event of the year, a battle of the bands.