Rock On

Rock On rocks! There's no other way to put it. It was the undisputed king of USC's first look, this coolest of shorts, and deservedly so. So many shorts are so bland, cookie-cutter and unoriginal. Rock On is the opposite of those things, bursting with energy, hilarious, and from a one-of-a-kind voice, the kind of film only one person can make. A great story, great acting and great fun, you can feel the fun the filmmakers had making it. If you're a hair metal fan or have ever even just had a song stuck in your head, you'll be right there with the protagonist from the start. Great perf by Jared in the lead, by the way, that guy is going somewhere. Rock On definitely leaves little doubt that a great career in Hollywood lies ahead of its director...

I went to the Arclight theater out of complete boredom, and heard about the short film screenings, after seeing countless films, I walked away with only one film and one song in my head by Whitesnake. Rock On blew the others away. It was the most professionally done film and the actors were amazing. I thought that the character Bob could take flight on a movie of his own. The ending was satisfying...but left me wanting more. Bring back Bob! He's a riot. The theme of the film is awesome especially for those of us who grew up listening to Whitesnake, and if you're not a fan when you begin the film, you will be by the end. I think this song will be forever linked to this film. I still hear the song on the radio and smile.

Of the short films I watched over the 4 days of USC First Look, there were more than a few productions which stood from the rest. Rock On stood, danced, and stomped . . . the crowd visibly enjoyed the presentation.

Jarod Edington plays Jake, the guy who cannot get the Whitesnake song out of his head. At first, the song does not bother him. Over the days, Jake begins to dread the verse "Here I go, again on my own . . ."

For a short film, this one kept a good rise to the peak. Ample amounts of comedy help to move along the film. Jake's progression into near madness plays well, and the film is a good overall effort . . . the supporting cast played the parts well.

At the end of the evening, the stack of Rock On DVDs on the media table . . . disappeared. The crowd most definitely appreciated this light-hearted tale.