twistedkites8705 I definitely don't think it was as good as HSM. I watched this because I really liked HSM and I knew this was done by the same people that did HSM. Plus I just love Autumn Reeser. She was good in this. Her character is pretty much the same as Taylor in The O.C. I really wanted to like Nina, the female lead, in this movie but she just didn't do it for me. The girl who did her singing had an alright voice. I really liked the male lead and the rest of the cast. They definitely stole the show. The songs weren't as catchy as the HSM ones, although there were a couple I liked. The story and songs were definitely better by the end. Overall it was entertaining and worth watching.

dawn_treador-1 Though comparisons to "High School Musical" are inevitable, the charm of "The American Mall" is in its contrasts. TAM has a more honest and humble foundation for its story, and doesn't over-promise anything. And that's good.The musical numbers aren't intended to blow you out the door like HSM, but instead are outward expressions of inner battles. Even though fantastical, the numbers reflect feelings and emotions more creatively and genuinely than HSM.Focusing on the actors, Nina Dobrev's eyes are amazing in their subtle expressions. During an early duet, Dobrev (as Ally) hints at joy, thrill, uncertainty, wild abandon, and fear as her character wrestles with the bombardment of feeling. It's heartbreaking, soaring, and perfectly done. Later, during a terrific fantasy scene, Dobrev burns off the character's restraints to reveal one seriously intense individual. Dobrev's expressiveness combined with excellent songs and sharp choreography give TAM a solid foundation.In a welcome contrast to Disney's formula of lightweight antagonists, the character of Madison, played to perfection by Autumn Reeser, is one mean young lady, who has no reservations about stepping on anyone to get what she wants. Autumn gives this shallow character quite a bit of depth, though, in a way that sets up a climactic scene that is surprising in its power.Rob Mayes brings a sense of reality to the character of Joey the janitor. His character's imperfections, choices and their consequences are key drivers in the movie. Mayes' portrayal is nicely understated, and it reinforces the humble feel of the movie.What TAM shares with HSM are solid songs that move the story along. While HSM has slicker choreography and production, TAM has better and more frequent bits of humor throughout, providing just the right balance of tone.HSM tells viewers that no matter what stereotype you fit, you don't have to completely subscribe to that image...you can break loose and achieve superstardom, which equates to being able to sing, dance and act.TAM meets viewers closer to the truth, that not every dream comes true, and that your character and conviction will be sorely tested in life, even by those closest to you. Try to persevere anyway.

Toni Not a great movie, not even decent. I have to agree with another of the posters here. From my kids point of view, it was not worth watching. Giving a teen's point of view isn't putting down actors, it is giving her opinion, which in your words is putting down my own kids. Kids are entitled to give their opinion too since this movie is geared towards them anyway.I watched this movie with my 3 girls, one left the room, another fell asleep and the 3rd watched it until the end to see if it got any better. Half way through the movie I read a book. In addition the movie left question unanswered. Did the gal and her mom get to keep their store? We can only assume she did. For an adult we can assume the outcome, for tweens and possibly some teens, they are left wondering.

lauren-leonardxo This movie was a great teenage musical, filled with great songs and dance numbers. The cast did a fantastic job on the vocals and i think you are being a little to judge mental.If Nina (lead actress) couldn't sing then why would they have cast her for lead!? This movie is making a bold statement in saying that you shouldn't't/can't just take or be given everything you have to earn it. It teaches that you can't be selfish, that you have to give to get things in return. There were also the little messages in it to help make the earth a better place. In the shirts Nina would wear to the earth friendly contexts. It's okay to have your own opinion but when your putting other's down, those who are doing this for kids like yours, that's low.