Common Sense Media Review
Feel-good musical has positive messages for tweens.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
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High School Musical
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 42 parent reviews
Parents say the movie evokes strong nostalgia among viewers while promoting positive messages for children and tweens, making it a fun watch despite its cheesiness and unrealistic portrayals of teenage life. While some parents find it suitable and enjoyable for younger audiences, citing great music and humor, others express concerns about some flirtatious content and stereotypical depictions, suggesting it's best for ages 8 and up.
- age appropriate
- positive messages
- nostalgic fun
- unrealistic portrayals
- catchy music
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 159 kid reviews
What's the Story?
In HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, Troy (Zac Efron) and Gabriella (Vanessa Anne Hudgens) meet when they're paired for a New Year's Eve karaoke contest while vacationing with their families. Once they return to East High, Troy, captain of the school's basketball team, and studious Gabriella, who has just transferred in, find out that they're in the same homeroom class and become friends. When auditions are announced for the school's musical, the pair decides to try out. Their duet is impressive enough to earn a callback, which sparks the anger of usual lead performers Sharpay Evans (Ashley Tisdale) and her brother, Ryan (Lucas Grabeel). Also unhappy are the members of Gabriella's academic decathlon team, who need her help to win an upcoming match, and Troy's teammates, who've been practicing for an important championship game. Everyone around them starts to work behind their backs to stop them from starring in the musical, but can Troy and Gabriella break free from others' expectations and prove that it's OK to be more than one thing?
Is It Any Good?
What infuses this movie with much of its spunk are Efron's and Hudgens' lively performances; both come across as friendly, well-adjusted, and immensely likable. During High School Musical's song-and-dance-filled musical numbers—including "Breaking Free," "Start of Something New," and "We're All in This Together" (all Billboard 100 hits)—the movie sometimes feels more like a music video. The only thing that really detracts from getting fully immersed is the sugar-coated way that the film portrays issues that regularly cause teens angst, such as entrenched cliques, self-esteem, and peer pressure. The world of High School Musical seems to be right next door to Pleasantville, where everything works out and everyone gets along in the end.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about whether the characters in High School Musical are good role models. What do you think the filmmakers want kids to take away from watching this movie?
What are some ways to resist peer pressure? How can you stand up to friends who belittle your choices or talents?
Why is it important to try new things? Can you think of a time you were scared to try something new but were glad you went out of your comfort zone?
How do the characters in High School Musical demonstrate integrity, empathy, courage, and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 20, 2006
- On DVD or streaming : May 23, 2006
- Cast : Ashley Tisdale , Vanessa Hudgens , Zac Efron
- Director : Kenny Ortega
- Inclusion Information : Gay Movie Director(s) , Queer Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Walt Disney Pictures
- Genre : Musical
- Topics : Arts ( Music and Sing-Along ) , Friendship , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Empathy , Integrity , Teamwork
- Run time : 98 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Awards : Common Sense Media Award , NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : May 1, 2026
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