Although expectations for We Are Your Friends were neither here nor there for me, Director/Writer Max Joseph (Catfish) certainly leaves an impression with this solid debut. The EDM Drama centers on a talented young hustler named Cole (Zac Efron), aspiring to be a DJ/Producer. Along the way, we witness some of his challenges, including balancing his friendships, finding a mentor in respected (Wes Bentley) and coping with his feelings for James’ stunning girlfriend Sophie (Emily Ratajkowski). Although there really is nothing new here in some of the story line, Joseph crafts a fresh-feeling, piece driven by gorgeous visuals and superbly-paired music.
Chemistry is rather intense between Bentley, Ratajkowski (whom you will not be able to keep your eyes from) and Efron and in so many ways we want those flames to ignite between the latter two. This keeps things dangerous, leaving us invested. A talented supporting cast including Shiloh Fernandez, Alex Shaffer and Jonny Weston, remind us amidst the fantastical ride as a rising star in the EDM world, Efron really is just one of the boys – someone relatable.
What makes We Are Your Friends refreshing. In so many films we see character suddenly able to compose a song in logic-defying fashion. This Film really respects the music-making process and it is a great joy witnessing Cole’s own masterpiece at the end of the big lead-up.
Warner Bros. Pictures Canada release WE ARE YOUR FRIENDS on Friday, August 28, 2015.
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