Courtesy of TVLine
Before the release of Disney Plus on Tuesday, Nov. 12, one of the most talked-about original series was “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series.” While other originals like “The Mandalorian” were highly anticipated for what people were sure would be great content, the “High School Musical” series was not received the same way. People anticipated the show, but many were apprehensive about the absolute train wreck that might be in store. The series is currently halfway through its 10-episode season, and people have quickly changed their tune about the show. What people assumed would be a disaster is actually a show with capable actors, great music and a decent plot.
When movies or television shows get their own spin-offs, the content is never at the same level as what it was based on. Even though the series shares part of its title with the 2006 hit movie “High School Musical,” the story is not set in the same world as Troy and Gabriella, the two leads in the original movie. Rather, the mockumentary series follows students at the high school where “High School Musical” was filmed, as they simultaneously navigate their teen years and act in a production of the musical based on the movie.
If that seems confusing, it’s because it is, and that is why many people were apprehensive about the show at first glance. Several times in the show the characters mention how Zac Efron played Troy Bolton, the props used by Vanessa Hudgens as her character Gabriella and the iconic pink lockers used by the character Sharpay Evans, which are even visible in the background of many shots.
“High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” is better than any other teen drama on television today. The series is reminiscent of shows like “The Office” and “Glee.” Characters constantly break the fourth wall to talk directly to the camera and the show is also filled with musical numbers from “High School Musical,” as well as original songs.
What is truly refreshing about this series is that actual teenagers are playing the roles of teenagers. Breakout stars include Joshua Bassett, Olivia Rodrigo and Matt Cornett. The series focuses primarily on Nini (Rodrigo), who balances between perfecting her role as Gabriella in their school’s production of “High School Musical” and her complicated love life. Working opposite of her in the musical is her ex-boyfriend Ricky (Bassett), who plays Troy and is trying to win Nini over, despite the fact that she has a new boyfriend, EJ (Cornett). As if this love triangle couldn’t get any messier, EJ plays opposite of Ricky as Troy Bolton’s best friend, Chad. Drama unfolds as the series progresses, and through the rubble of the chaos Bassett and Rodrigo rise. Their singing skills, strong acting ability and adorable chemistry make it impossible not to be Team Ricky and Nini.
Teen dramas have arguably turned into garbage in the past decade. Since saying goodbye to shows like “Gossip Girl” and “Vampire Diaries,” it has been hard trying to fill the void those shows left. While shows like “Riverdale” have tried (and majorly failed) to fill that void, there just have not been good quality teen dramas that we can both immerse ourselves in and endlessly make fun of. If shows like “Riverdale” can make it to a fourth season, then “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” is sure to go far. Their original songs are undeniable bops, the acting is better than that of most other teen actors and the plot is entertaining. “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” deserves to be given a fair chance.
