Written by Joyelle Ronan
The year was 2006. The jeans were low and crocs were cool. I, eight at the time, sat before my television in anticipation for the latest Disney Channel original movie. Little did I know that this particular “D-Com” would have a lasting impact on my generation and generations to come. Yes, I’m talking about High School Musical. This movie was so popular that it had two sequels, best-selling soundtracks, a national tour, and, over a decade later, is still very well known. For many years, rumors floated around about a fourth movie with a new cast, but there was never any official news. That is until the fateful year of 2019, 13 years since the original movie, that it was announced that High School Musical would be getting a television series spin-off.
In the past, I haven’t been a huge fan of reboots or spin-offs. As a dedicated Full House fan, Fuller House was a huge disappointment. I’m not sure if the comedy of the 90’s sitcom just didn’t transfer well — or if I only like the original show because of the nostalgia factor. Either way, I felt like it should’ve been left alone. I’ve been similarly disappointed by the That So Raven and Boy Meets World reboots as well. I feel like Disney and similar networks are just banking on reboots to be successful — no matter the quality. Despite my disappointment in the past, I actually have high hopes for the new High School Musical show. It has an interesting premise instead of just hoping for views based on childhood memories. This show has a chance to be the “Start of Something New” for future spin-offs.
First of all, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series is not set in the same world as the original Film. The characters in the spin-off are aware that High School Musical is a fictional movie, they just happen to go the real High School where the film was shot. Second, the style of the show is a mockumentary. It revolves around the real East High putting on a production of High School Musical: The Musical. I think this format will suit the show really well and provide many opportunities to make fun of itself and its source material. Lastly, as far as I can tell, the original cast will not be returning. As much as I would love to see Zac Efron back in his Wildcats’ jersey singing “Get’cha Head in the Game,” it would be too weird. I just want to know that Troy and Gabriella lived happily ever after — so I never have to face the reality that Zac and Vanessa broke up.
Overall verdict: give it a chance. It will probably make you feel old, but there will likely be some laughs, and you can feel good about how many lyrics you still remember! High School Musical: The Musical: The Series will start streaming November 12 on the new Disney+ subscription service.
