‘Rock of Ages’ is a fair depiction of the bygone era of the 80s which saw the rise of some epic artists, and when psychedelia in music gained prominence. Director Adam Shankman has all the ingredients of a blockbuster musical, but somehow, ‘Rock of Ages’ fails to make that required impact. In the story, Sherrie Christian (Julianne Hough) arrives in Los Angeles with a song in her heart. Soon she falls for Drew (Diego Boneta), the barkeep at a famous nightclub ‘Bourbon Room’, who nurtures dreams deeper than his dimpled cheeks. Drew then gets Sherrie a job at the club. Owned by Dennis Dipree (Baldwin in a grungy look) and his aide Lonny (Russell Brand), the ‘Bourbon Room’ faces financial crisis and threat from a malicious political campaign led by Mayor Mike Whitmore (Cranston) and his wife Patricia (Catherine Zeta Jones). To save the ‘Bourbon Room’ only one person seems to be the sole hope and he is Drew’s idol, living legend, superstar and the ‘most unreliable man in the music industry’ Stacey Jaxx (Tom Cruise) who also happens to be Patricia’s exclusive target. The film has a weak plot but an impressive star cast which makes it worth a watch. The spotlight in the movie is hogged by its music that features songs by Twisted Sister and Whitesnake among other 80’s mavericks. As the obnoxious but hilarious rock star Tom Cruise shines. Zeta Jones’ bloodthirsty character is wicked and makes the viewer cringe. Baldwin and Brand shine with their delightful portrayal as pub owners desperate to save their club. Watch it if you love musicals or if you are a Tom Cruise fan. He doesn’t disappoint. Ratings: Three cheers for this one!
