Malin Åkerman was the last member of the cast to be added, in the role of Constance Sack.
Rock of Ages is a 2012 American jukebox musical comedy film that takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the glamorous 80s rock scene. Directed by Adam Shankman and based on the rock jukebox Broadway musical of the same name by Chris D'Arienzo, this film brings together an ensemble cast that includes Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Russell Brand, Alec Baldwin, Paul Giamatti, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Malin Åkerman, Mary J. Blige, Bryan Cranston, Tom Cruise, and more. The film features the music of iconic 1980s rock artists like Def Leppard, Journey, Scorpions, Poison, and Bon Jovi, to name a few.
Originally scheduled for a 2011 release, Rock of Ages entered production in May 2011 and was released on June 15, 2012. While the film received mixed critical reviews, it gained praise for Tom Cruise's exceptional performances of "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and "Wanted Dead or Alive." The film's soundtrack also garnered widespread acclaim, debuting at number one on the Billboard Top Soundtracks chart.
Plot
In 1987 Los Angeles, Sherrie Christian, a young aspiring singer from Oklahoma, arrives with dreams of making it big in the music industry. However, her suitcase is stolen upon arrival. Drew Boley, a barback at the famous Bourbon Room, comes to Sherrie's aid and gets her a job as a waitress. Desperate to save the struggling club from a tax debt, the owner, Dennis Dupree, books Stacee Jaxx, a self-indulgent rock star, for a final gig with his band, Arsenal. As the story unfolds, relationships develop, dreams are pursued, and the power of rock music takes center stage.
Cast
The film boasts an impressive cast, including:
- Julianne Hough as Sherrie Christian
- Diego Boneta as Drew Boley
- Russell Brand as Lonny Barnett
- Paul Giamatti as Paul Gill
- Catherine Zeta-Jones as Patricia Whitmore
- Malin Åkerman as Constance Sack
- Mary J. Blige as Justice Charlier
- Alec Baldwin as Dennis Dupree
- Tom Cruise as Stacee Jaxx
- Bryan Cranston as Mayor Mike Whitmore
Tom Cruise saw positive reviews for his performance as Stacee Jaxx, with critics making parallels to his previous work in the films Interview with the Vampire and Magnolia.
Filming and Release
Principal photography for Rock of Ages took place at various locations, including Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Downtown Miami. The film premiered in Los Angeles on June 8, 2012, featuring live performances by rock bands Def Leppard and Poison. It was released theatrically on June 15, 2012.
While the film didn't perform well at the box office, grossing $59.4 million worldwide on a $75 million budget, it still holds the record for the seventh-highest opening for a musical. Director Adam Shankman believes the film would have been more successful if released on a streaming platform due to market challenges and the marketing strategy.
Critical Reception
Rock of Ages received mixed reviews from critics. Tom Cruise's performance as Stacee Jaxx garnered positive reviews, with critics drawing parallels to his previous work in films like Interview with the Vampire and Magnolia. However, the film was criticized for its script, length, and some performances. Despite the divisive feedback, the film has gained a cult following over the years.
Soundtrack
The film's soundtrack features a collection of iconic 80s rock songs performed by the cast members themselves. Songs like "Don't Stop Believin'," "Pour Some Sugar on Me," and "Here I Go Again" will transport you back to the energetic and anthemic era of rock music.
Rock of Ages remains a beloved film for fans of 80s rock and musical enthusiasts alike. Its electrifying performances and memorable soundtrack make it a must-watch for anyone looking to relive the magic of the golden age of rock. So grab your air guitar, turn up the volume, and get ready to rock out with Rock of Ages!
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