About High School Musical 2

High School Musical 2, directed by Kenny Ortega and produced by Bill Borden and Barry Rosenbush, was a venerated and popular Disney Channel Original Movie, released in the year 2007. The story revolves around a group of students from East High School, who find themselves navigating the trials and triumphs of work, play, and romance during their summer vacation.

The plot progresses from the confines of the school, where the friends strive to make the most of their summer break, chase their hopes, face challenges, and discover their talents. The narrative further delves into themes of conflict, ambition, love and friendship.

Making / Production

Reprising the successes of the first installment, the production of High School Musical 2 was undertaken by Disney Channel. Unlike its predecessor, it was filmed on location in Utah, primarily at the Entrada at Snow Canyon Country Club and Inn in St. George and the adjoining Red Cliffs Desert Reserve. The movie premiered on Disney Channel on August 17, 2007.

Actors

• Zac Efron as Troy Bolton: Handsome, yet humble, he shows profound transformation and carries the burden of acing up his game while securing a bright future.
• Vanessa Hudgens as Gabriella Montez: A sweet, soft-spoken girl who faces difficulties in managing her relationship with Troy owing to increasing complications.
• Ashley Tisdale as Sharpay Evans: The antagonist, who conspires against Troy and Gabriella, while exhibiting an extravagant fashion sense and flamboyant personality.
• Lucas Grabeel as Ryan Evans: Sharpay's twin brother who, unlike his vain sister, undergoes an enlightening journey from living under his sister's shadow to finding his individuality.
• Corbin Bleu as Chad Danforth: Troy's loyal friend who passionately loves basketball, always stands beside Troy during thick and thin.
• Monique Coleman as Taylor McKessie: Gabriella's close friend and the voice of reason who often shares valuable insights with Gabriella about love and relationships.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This movie holds the Guinness World Record for the 'most successful song from a movie' due to its sensational hit "What Time Is It?"
• The movie gained a mammoth viewership of nearly 17.2 million viewers in its premiere broadcast, becoming the most-watched cable television movie.
• The scenes of the golf course in the movie were actually shot in a desert nature reserve.

Awards

The musical became an exceptional success, sweeping away two awards at the Primetime Emmy Awards 2008 for 'Outstanding Choreography' and 'Outstanding Children's Program'.

Quotes

• "Remember in kindergarten how you'd meet a kid and know nothing about them, then 10 seconds later you'd be playing like you were best friends, because you didn't have to be anything but yourself?" - Gabriella Montez
• "I gotta go my own way." - Gabriella Montez
• "What time is it? Summertime! It's our vacation!" - Cast

Music, Soundtrack

• "What Time Is It?" - the celebratory anthem that sets the tone for the summer vacation.
• "Fabulous" - a flamboyant performance by Sharpay that showcases her luxurious lifestyle.
• "Work This Out" - the ensemble number showcasing the squad juggling their summer jobs.
• "You Are The Music In Me" - a romantic duet by Troy and Gabriella showcasing their chemistry.
• "I Don't Dance" - a peppy number by Chad and Ryan that is ironically all about dancing.
• "Gotta Go My Own Way" - an emotional ballad by Gabriella expressing her feelings as she leaves Lava Springs.