Director: Adam Shankman
Cast: Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Tom Cruise, Alec Baldwin, Russell Brand, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Bryan Cranston, Mary J Blige, Paul Giamatti, Malin Akerman.
Rating: (M)
2 stars (out of 5)
Based on the Tony award-winning musical, which has to have been influenced by the ABBA-inspired Mamma Mia, Rock of Ages uses glam rock hits by the American "hair bands" of the 1980s.
A young singer, Sherrie (Julianne Hough), with stars in her eyes goes to Los Angeles to get her big break but instead ends up waitressing in the very venue that is the focus of her dreams. While there, she becomes romantically involved with Drew (Diego Boneta), the sweet bartender who has his own dreams of rock stardom.
You could say it is suspiciously like Burlesque, except it is the plot of every showbiz movie from before movies had sound.
What makes this almost bearable is Tom Cruise's portrayal of debauched rock star Stacee Jaxx and a finely tuned comedy double act from Alec Baldwin and Russell Brand.
Of course, debauched rock stars are cliches but Cruise knows about being trapped in a vortex of crazy fans and he gives us glimpses of the man behind the persona.
Cruise is terrific - it's a pity that the rest of Rock of Ages is so flabby.
Best thing: Cruise has the best set of sexy rock tattoos. They may be fake but they easily outclass anything you see on a real rocker.
Worst thing: It has all the entertainment value of watching someone else's karaoke night.
See it with: Someone who pumps up the volume when Bon Jovi comes on the radio.
- By Christine Powley
