Movies based on characters reaching self-discovery are commonplace, making it difficult to stand out. While some end up box-office hits, others fail to bring forth a central message.
Zac Efron stars in the new EDM-centric film “We Are Your Friends,” which failed to inspire viewers during its 96-minute run.
He plays Cole Carter, a DJ struggling to make it out of the suburban San Fernando Valley and into the tropes of Hollywood alongside friends Mason (Jonny Weston), Ollie (Shiloh Fernandez) and Squirrel (Alex Shaffer).
Cole’s thesis stands that you need one perfect track to kick off a DJ career, and he spends most of his time attempting to create a track to validate his work.
While waiting to DJ at a small venue one night, Cole meets James Reed (Wes Bentley), an issue-ridden older DJ who begins to mentor him, along with his younger girlfriend Sophie (Emily Ratajkowski), who Cole is infatuated with.
Tensions throughout the film begin to rise between Cole and everyone he’s involved with as they try to navigate life and make their experiences once in a lifetime.
The film lacks a distinguishing plotline as the climax is short-lived and no real resolution takes place.
The only redeeming quality is the way the film was shot, incorporating electronic beats and songs, bright lights, frequent drug use and music festival montage clips.
Out of all the elements involved in the film, the cinematography was the only lively part about it.
“We Are Your Friends” also is timely in the aspect that it focuses on DJing at large outdoor music festivals, which are popular throughout the year, but especially during the summer.
However, the popularity of EDM music has already passed its peak, making the film a sub-par attempt to cash in on the supporters of the genre.
The ending leaves some questions unanswered, although it makes an attempt at delivering the cliché message that anyone can achieve their dreams if they step out of their comfort zone.
Overall, this is a film best reserved for a casual night in once it is released on Netflix, as it at least has genuine performances by the actors.