Believable, likable, and GREAT entertainment. Great music, too!

Rating: 10/10 (23 August 2008)

I must admit I wasn't keen to see this movie. But I went because I'd seen everything else, and I wanted one more cinema fling before school starts. I am SO glad I did. The Rocker is GREAT! In my opinion, one of the potential downfalls of this kind of comedy, with an actor such as Rainn Wilson, is mugging (being overly cute for the camera, figuratively winking at the audience, etc.). To be kind, I won't mention examples of fatal cutesiness in other actors--- but you know what I mean. The Rocker avoided all of that, and came across as honest and friendly.
What was refreshing, and very enjoyable here, was the heart in the movie. It has a sweetness and an authenticity I really enjoyed. Solid story, believable plot, and it is populated by characters who actually make choices, learn, and grow. Sounds soppy, perhaps--- but it works very well. The movie has substance to it, and is thoroughly entertaining.
Lastly, I actually liked the A.D.D. music! I don't know who wrote it or sang it or any of that--- but if I had an album of it, or at least a few singles, I'd be pleased. Too bad it was all from a "fake" band, and will probably never be heard again.