Rock of Ages
Starring: Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Tom Cruise, Russell Brand, Alec Baldwin
Director: Adam Shankman
Reviewed by Danielle Muir

[rating:3.5/5]

To be honest, this had me at Russell Brand.

When the musical rolled into QPAC, I sort of kind of knew a little bit about it in that it had 80’s rock music in it.  Being a fan of said music, I decided to go along for the ride – really not knowing anything concrete about the show.  What I got was a cavalcade of anthems, humour and endless amounts of hairspray.  I loved it.

I know that films and musicals have a completely different energy about them upon viewing.  So I didn’t expect the experience to be identical.  However Rock of Ages the movie has a vibe as upbeat as ever, spectacular sets and the musical numbers are so over-the-top you can’t help but fall in love with its unashamed flamboyance.  I highly doubt this is what the 80’s were really like (myself being a 90’s kid) however it’s always hilarious to paint the caricatured picture of big hair and sequins seen here.

So to the story – a pair of star crossed lovers meet on the sunset strip, hoping to make their rock and roll dreams a reality.  Sherrie Christian (Hough) is the all-American sweetheart, making the trip from her country family to follow her dreams of being a singer (as so many have done before her).  Drew Boley (Boneta), barman at the infamous Bourbon Bar, spies her perky…personality and soon gets her a waitress job.  Tortured rock star Staycee Jaxx (Cruise) throws a spanner in the works, Brand and Baldwin provide the predominant comic relief as the bar owners, plus a myriad of other stars in equally upbeat roles.

Special props to all the actors who carry their tunes very convincingly.  Tom Cruise belts ballads out with gusto, and there are honestly no bad performances (except Julianne Hough may irritate if you dislike nasal singing voices).  Everyone throws themselves into whatever step they dance or note they sing, which is what elevates Rock of Ages from cringe-worthy cheesefest to campy awesome.

I’ll be honest – you’ll either love or hate this movie.  Take this piece of entertainment for what it is, and just go along for the ride.  Otherwise, just go to see some ‘serious’ actors let loose and surprise you with their antics.  It’s more fun that way.