One night in college this past year, I was hanging out with a group of friends from literally all across the country. Despite our differences, the topic of High School Musical came up and, in perfect harmony, we all belted out "Bop to the Top." This amazing moment of unity solidified my belief that High School Musical, without a doubt, is the greatest movie of our generation. Here are the top 10 reasons why:
1. Zac Efron
Troy Bolton was, and always will be, the ultimate teenage heartthrob. A guy who is the star athlete AND can sing? I'm sold. And don't even get me started on those Zac Efron eyes.
2. All of the songs
Never have catchier songs been sung. Honestly, I can't pick my favorite. Ten years later, "Breaking Free" is still my go-to shower singing song.
3.Troy and Gabriella
These two are the ultimate #couplegoals. My heart still flutters every time I watch the scene where Troy steps from behind the mop cart to volunteer to audition with Gabriella. And, the fact that Zac and Vanessa dated in real life just makes this even better.
4. Gabriella is a smart, empowering female role model
Gabriella made it cool to be smart and nerdy. She literally wore a lab coat to sing "Breaking Free", and managed to look like a princess. She was the moral compass of the movie and always stood up for what she believed in. Girl Power!
5. Sharpay’s outfits
The truest drama queen to ever grace a TV screen, Sharpay Evan's wardrobe was to die for. That blue "Bop to the Top" dress? Pure perfection. Sharpay and her amazing outfits were truly the stars of the movie.
6.“Get'cha Head in the Game’s” Choreography
One word: mind-blowing. Honestly, this song and dance routine were the coolest thing eight-year-old me had ever witnessed, and nineteen-year-old me still agrees. Zac Efron and Corbin Bleu singing AND being super athletic? Mind-blowing.
7. The life lessons
This movie had so many positive messages sprinkled into inspiring songs, energetic dancing, and heartfelt dialogue. It taught thousands of kids that to "Stick to the Status Quo" wasn't important, and that instead baking, bustin' a move, playing the cello, or whatever makes you happy should be your priority.
8. Ms. Darbus
Ms. Darbus is the eccentric, sassy, and inspiring teacher we all dreamed we could have. This lady was the driving force of the movie, and helped make Troy into the adorable singing jock we all know and love. And no one was more passionate about "musicales" than Ms. D. NO ONE.
9. The Wonderfully Unrealistic Expectations It Established
This beautiful movie had one major flaw: it created some very unrealistic expectations about high school. I had to find out the hard way that high school is not all about singing and dancing and dating the school stud. Also, you better believe my dream is to meet my soulmate at a New Year's Eve karaoke party.
10. Once You’re a Wildcat, You’re Always a Wildcat
High School Musical taught us many lessons, with the most important being that we're all in this together. This movie will always hold a special place in my heart because once you're a wildcat, you're always a wildcat. WHAT TEAM?!
