Thunderstruck Movie Review

For those about to rock, we salute you! For those about to watch a movie about those about to rock, we, um, we think you may be in over your head.

Thunderstruck is a quirky Aussie comedy (is there any other kind of Aussie comedy?) about a group of musicians who reconvene 12 years after their rawkin' band breaks up due to the death of one of the old band's members. They've made a pact that if one of them dies, the rest of the group will see that his body is buried alongside former AC/DC frontman Bon Scott. Road trip ensues, with all manner of silliness, zaniness, and craziness ensuing.

With a tagline of "Break every rule but never break a promise," we all know what's in store during this ride. The guys, whose lives bear little resemblance to their rocker days, will squabble and later come back together, all thanks to the power of friendship (and AC/DC music). With few real surprises, the film feels like a rehash of various tidbits from Detroit Rock City and Almost Famous, complete with the scene where the guys all join in singing a song in the van. (This time out it's "Total Eclipse of the Heart.")

Highlights include a traffic spat with disabled rugby players (including one midget!) and general debauchery, all delivered Aussie style. The cast is completely composed of unknowns, and they all acquit themselves well enough for such simplistic material. Then, of course, there's the soundtrack. Any metalhead or classic rock fanatic will find plenty here to enjoy, even if the on-screen proceedings are rote.