Cast: Tom Cruise, Catherina – Zeta Jones, Alec Baldwin, Russell Brand, Malin Akerman, Julianne Hough, Diego Bonata, Mary J. Blige

Directed By: Adam Shankman

Based on the Broadway musical by Chris DArienzo has a plot which is set in 1987 and tells the story about a small town girl from Ohio, Sherrie (Julianne Hough) who comes to LA in search of her dreams. Getting robbed of her belongings just as she makes her way around, she bumps into Drew (Diego Bonita) who helps her find a job. Both are newcomers struggling to become rock stars, but the closest they can get is working in the hottest rock & roll club on the Hollywood promenade.

In focus is Dennis (Alec Baldwin) and Lonnie (Russell Brand) co owners of The Bourbon Room who are struggling to keep their club running despite financial problems and pressure from a group of conservative protesters led by Patricia Whitmore (Catherine Zeta Jones). The only saving grace the club has is a performance by the band Arsenal, led by superstar rock god Stacee Jaxx (Tom Cruise), who's about to launch his solo career. Things don't go as planned though, thanks to the clever manipulation of Jaxx' manager Paul (Paul Giamatti) who also convinces and poisons Drew’s mind on getting fame and money.

So we go on and find out how each of the protagonists weave their way to the top be it Stacee, Drew and Sherrie. Though all three end up as losers, the film has other things in store. As for Sherrie and Drew, their rock 'n' roll romance is told through heart-pounding hits of Def Leppard, Joan Jett, Journey, Pat Benatar, Steve Perry, Twisted Sister, Poison, Whitesnake, Bon Jovi all performed by the artists themselves.

The beefy Tom Cruise struts around like a king in command, and just about manages to croon to some classic rock pieces with practiced ease, even though all the songs have been studio produced. Zeta Jones on the other hand is given a low down role, but manages to put some good moments.

-- Reviewed By Verus Ferreira