Rock of Ages Review

I had been dying to see Rock of Ages, mostly out of curiosity about Tom Cruise’s performance, but I confess it was also for the sake of nostalgia. I wasn’t exactly a rocker back in the day, but it was definitely a lot of fun to hear all of the music…and try not to sing along.

I know the critics are having a field day with mixed reviews and it didn’t perform well at the box office, but at the end of the day, I thought it was a great movie. Tom Cruise really doesn’t do a thing for me, and his face doesn’t come to mind when I think “great actor,” but I think he did an excellent job. If it makes sense, I was able to let go of the fact he was Tom Cruise, but all the while I kept watching him, thinking, wow, that’s Tom Cruise. His performance and the costumes were completely over the top, but it all worked. Special kudos to whoever picked out the chaps as part of the costume, ditto for the codpiece. I am not sure if hysterical laughter was the intended response, but oh well.

I agree the movie was campy, kitschy, and silly, but that’s what made it so much fun. It was actually nice to see a movie for pure entertainment for a change and leave the theater simply feeling good. It reminded me of going to see Disney movies as a kid. I saw it alone, but I didn’t feel the need to have a deep conversation about gore, sex scenes, or politics. It was just fun and entertaining. I am actually glad I was alone, because I did spent my ride home humming and trying to figure out which relative of mine actually owned the black and white suitcase that belonged to the character Sherrie.

I know the characters played by Julianne Hough and Diego Boneta were the focus, but I thought the other actors’ performances were much more entertaining, and if I never hear either one of them sing again, it would be so alright with me. Russell Brand definitely gave Tom Cruise a run for his money as far as stealing the show, but everyone belted out a tune or two. I had no idea there would be so much singing…or that I knew all the words to “Sister Christian.”

I am surprised that it got any negative reviews; I mean, it was just a fun movie, and better than I expected. I don’t think I would want to see it again, but I did get a kick out of it and suggest it for a fun summer movie for the family. And if you find yourself trying not to sing along…good luck.