The American Mall

I bought this DVD from a bargain bin, and I still paid too much. I find sappy musicals so annoying, and this one hit a new low for me. I have heard more depth in songs on Jem! The songs are so heavily auto tuned, it was like listening to Britney and Madonna caterwauling! The characters are all so shallow, the dance routines make Glee look like Hamlet. The whole movie was a giant "flash mob" with little flash and a lame mob. The plot line is very similar to many teen dramas (90210, Degrassi, Parker Lewis Can't Lose). I had never heard of any of the "actors" in this movie, and I can see why. All very forgettable performances, although I thought "Ben" (the hot dog guy) was cute. Save your money, don't bother with this one.

Though comparisons to "High School Musical" are inevitable, the charm of "The American Mall" is in its contrasts. TAM has a more honest and humble foundation for its story, and doesn't over-promise anything. And that's good.

The musical numbers aren't intended to blow you out the door like HSM, but instead are outward expressions of inner battles. Even though fantastical, the numbers reflect feelings and emotions more creatively and genuinely than HSM.

Focusing on the actors, Nina Dobrev's eyes are amazing in their subtle expressions. During an early duet, Dobrev (as Ally) hints at joy, thrill, uncertainty, wild abandon, and fear as her character wrestles with the bombardment of feeling. It's heartbreaking, soaring, and perfectly done. Later, during a terrific fantasy scene, Dobrev burns off the character's restraints to reveal one seriously intense individual. Dobrev's expressiveness combined with excellent songs and sharp choreography give TAM a solid foundation.

In a welcome contrast to Disney's formula of lightweight antagonists, the character of Madison, played to perfection by Autumn Reeser, is one mean young lady, who has no reservations about stepping on anyone to get what she wants. Autumn gives this shallow character quite a bit of depth, though, in a way that sets up a climactic scene that is surprising in its power.

Rob Mayes brings a sense of reality to the character of Joey the janitor. His character's imperfections, choices and their consequences are key drivers in the movie. Mayes' portrayal is nicely understated, and it reinforces the humble feel of the movie.

What TAM shares with HSM are solid songs that move the story along. While HSM has slicker choreography and production, TAM has better and more frequent bits of humor throughout, providing just the right balance of tone.

HSM tells viewers that no matter what stereotype you fit, you don't have to completely subscribe to that image...you can break loose and achieve superstardom, which equates to being able to sing, dance and act.

TAM meets viewers closer to the truth, that not every dream comes true, and that your character and conviction will be sorely tested in life, even by those closest to you. Try to persevere anyway.

To begin with I have to say I am not a fan of musicals at all. Having said that, I ask myself; what is the difference between this movie and a masterpiece like Grease...? Mostly a moronic script (in the case of this film, of course). Otherwise, the music is not half as bad, it could have befitted a decent musical. Of course the acting isn't top notch either like it was in Grease, etc. etc.

Considering this is a made-for-TV production though, I have to say that the music bails it out somewhat and brings it close to an average movie in spite of the above mentioned shortcomings. I suppose the film could appeal to teenagers and the 'High School Musical' crowd, but nothing more.

I just finished watching this show. I agree to a large degree with the review that was posted on here. This show could have been a lot better with more originality. I have read that the main female singer's voice may have been dubbed. This movie was more set up to sell the commercials than to present a musical like "High School Musical," and actually "Camp Rock" were. It borrowed from these sources as well as a host of others I cannot think of at the moment.

Frankly I liked some of the songs but Mtv cut off some of the numbers to go to commercials before the ending of the song was actually shown. The last number was definitely borrowed from "Camp Rock." When "High School Musical" came out, I thought it was a good idea and I am sure teenagers could relate. Now we are seeing so many clones or attempts to clone this show, that is getting out of hand.

I am sure the "Camp Rock" and "High School Musical" fans will probably watch this or tape it and may even buy the DVD.

I wish they could rely on better material.

Again, this is one person's opinion.

It is no High School Musical, don't let the connection fool you! This movie is so bad! It was one of the most contrived things I had seen in a really really long time and I just watched Troll 2. I seriously doubt that most of the people in this sang for themselves and there were times when the lip-sinking was really off. I had hopes for a semi-enjoyable experience and am really upset with how let down I was. I at least expected good dancing but no. On top of it all they even tried blaming the victim a couple of times amidst all the mainly unintelligible story line and signing. MTV is in big trouble with me for making this movie and trying to give some of these messages to kids. There were times all I could think was "what are you doing". Is that the image and message we want to send to our young girls! Really MTV bad job, you have sunk to a new low. I apologize for my rant but I hope it stops others from watching this and letting any young girls in there house from watching it.