In an obviously more lavish (and thus expensive) production, all the stops are pulled out as the East High kids prepare for summer vacation. The old stomping grounds at their Albequerque high school (the film was actually shot in Utah) are revisited during the opening number “What Time Is It?” We briefly see Troy (Efron) and Gabriela’s (Vanessa Hudgens) tormentor Mrs. Darbus (Alyson Reed) from the first film, but she is merely part of a fast-paced exposition that sets the East Siders free for what should be a carefree summer. The kids go through the now familiar hallways, cafeteria, and eventually finish on a high note on the outside campus with the school building in the background. The message is clear: school is out for summer; let the party begin.
Unfortunately, reality wriggles its way into the story. Troy and his teammates play basketball with his father (Bart Johnson), who happens to also be the team’s coach. Dad/coach establishes the idea that summer is also a good time to make some money to either buy a car, get things they want to buy, or perhaps save for college. This is the pivotal point in the rising action, for Troy’s concern about the cost of college leads him and his friends to take jobs at local resort. Unbeknownst to them, this has all been set-up by the snooty Sharpay (played with a touch of evil glee by Ashley Tisdale) in order for her to get closer, much closer, to Troy.
As the old gang descends on an upper-crusty New Mexico country club, we discover that Sharpay’s parents own the place, and she has not learned her lesson from the first movie and still foolishly has her eyes focused on Troy Bolton. Troy has wisely found a way for all his buds from East High, along with his favorite gal Gabriela, to get hired with him, making the situation ripe for sparks to fly as the annual talent show literally sets the stage for conflict.
There are solid dance numbers performed throughout, with some of the ancillary stars from the first film getting a little more to say, do, and sing this time around. The best one is “I Don’t Dance” set on a baseball field under a crystal clear blue desert sky. Here, Chad (Corbin Bleu) and Ryan (Lucas Grabeel) face-off in a battle of wits and physical prowess. It is what was once called a “showstopper” and manages to lift the spirits while propelling the plot forward nicely, slipping Ryan into the “in” crowd he never thought he could ever join.
Article comments
1 - Danyce Seney
I think all kids and parents should petition Disney Channel to make High School Musical into a weekly series....It is fast paced, fun and does teach the kids values. I even enjoy it as a 30+ adult with a college degree and career. It is something I can do with my kids and songs we can sing together. Unfortunately, there is no way to provide feedback to Disney about this. They would profit more from a weekly series than a concert tour. More parents would subscribe to the channel.....more kids would watch all the programs......rather than just teens ansd tweens being allowed to go to a concert.
how can we get Disney Channel to listen?
2 - Emma
I liked both movies just the same.
3 - Victor Lana
Danyce, maybe we will get a weekly show, but it would no doubt star a completely different cast, which might not be so bad. By then maybe the Sprouse twins will be old enough for one to play Troy.
4 - Kate
i love the movies!! i watched them like 40 times each now and i just cant stop!!! do you think that there will be a hsm 3 and 4 and so on???
5 - Kristi
Kate,
There is a 3rd High School Musical coming out next year, and it may be in theaters. The plot is going to be their Senior prom and gradutation. Im not sure about a 4th one.
6 - John
Thank goodness there are finally some excellent role models for our kids. These movies deal with real life growing up situations, fitting in, being your best, reaching for the stars. We don't get inundated with sex and violence, political messages or commercial endorsements. What we get are clean cut kids from all walks of life. The clothing the kids wear is excellent and parent approved. No bikinis in this movie, no cleavage, no baggy clothing, no tattos. It shows girls can be strong leaders and anyone is capable of standing up for themselves. Places kids on equal levels no matter their standing.
"I Can't Dance" was the showstopper. How does a kid wear bright white clothes on a clay baseball field and not get dirty? It must be the Disney magic and there is lots of it in this movie.
We had to stop our vacation and actually leave a theme park early because my kids wanted to see this movie so badly. It was well worth it!
Thank you Mickey Mouse!
7 - Josh Lasser
Congratulations! This article has been selected for syndication to Advance.net, which is affiliated with newspapers around the United States.
8 - Victor Lana
Thanks, Josh, this kind of opportunity is always appreciated.
Oh, and John, I believe old Walt would be pleased with entertainment like HSM 1 & 2. I certainly like this kind of thing for my daughter.
9 - Annabella
Both movies are ah-mazing! And I think Zac Efron is my dream guy. He is ADORABLE!!!! Who agrees?
10 - Victor Lana
My daughter agrees, Annabella. She's only 6, but I'm sure lots of other girls (of various ages) feel the same way. Of course, the boys have Vanessa and Ashley to keep them busy. It's like the old "beach blanket" movies of the 50s & 60s in a way, but the formula still works.
11 - Thuy
I REALY LIKE HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 2.BECASE IT SO GREAT AND THE SONG OF THAT SO GREAT,TOO
12 - Victor Lana
I have heard the soundtrack over and over (my daughter likes it played in the car), and the songs are just as catchy as in the first film. I do think here that that the lyrics are particularly poignant and, as I point out in the above review, it seems crafted for those people who believe in the Disney mantra: once upon a time, wishing upon a star, and even whistling while one works.
Hey, all I know is my daughter loved it and I really enjoyed it too.
13 - kat
im loving this movie!!!
slightly embarassed to admit it in uni though
i wish i could randomly burst into song as well
14 - Victor Lana
Don't be embarrased, Kat, because the film is good fun and, just like visiting Disney theme parks, becomes infectious making repeated viewing a must. What time is it? I think time to watch it again. Enjoy!
15 - Alia
Ilove HSM Alot
16 - Briony.Jamieson
I love you movies and troy is so hot and I wanted to no if you would like to hang out and I am 16
and how old are you so if you do 6:00clock tell me
were at love ya troy
17 - lee
when is hsm 2 going to show again?
18 - Shelly P
I think Troy is sooo sexy! I would for sure give him whatever physical action he wants!!! LOL....ceo for now HSM fans...
19 - ajla
When it comes to great movies for children who are younger, HSM 1 & 2 did the trick. The movies were beyond what I imagined it would be. They were teaching kids life lessons,and values while having fun. I think High School Musical should beyond further then just movies and concerts however, they should go maybe episodes airing on Disney Channel. Me as a young teenager look up to these kinds of movies. Honestly I wouldn't recommend anything else for my siblings then what Disney has to offer
20 - Victor Lana
Thanks for the comment, Ajla. I guess you're officially excited about "Camp Rock" (well, at least I know that my daughter is). Keep enjoying these movies and shows and watching them with your siblings. That's wonderful.