Matialth Good concept, poorly executed.

TeenzTen An action-packed slog

Mischa Redfern I didn’t really have many expectations going into the movie (good or bad), but I actually really enjoyed it. I really liked the characters and the banter between them.

Ella-May O'Brien Each character in this movie — down to the smallest one — is an individual rather than a type, prone to spontaneous changes of mood and sometimes amusing outbursts of pettiness or ill humor.

radudinosaur2 This is the first review I write on this site.Rise is good, that's not debatable. Whether is 100% original or not, it's another problem, albeit an unimportant one, since it's almost impossible to create something truly original these days (this paragraph was a response to those comparing it to Glee).Rise wants to bring to light problems, glued together by the theater program. It was the first time I saw an actor with Down syndrome, and I was blown away; it was a nice touch, and further proved me that people like this are truly amazing. Teenage pregnancy is, again, disputed in the show, as well as gay relationships, and how they are perceived from a Christian point of view, and a trans person who is also trans in real life... This one was totally new to me. The "normal" part of the show was sweet; it was the drama that gave me a 40 mins break from the exam that I should study for right now, and it made me love the characters and their stories, which at times meant warmth, and at times meant tension.Now, the modern side of the show had it points that needed to get across. Sometimes, these views and ideas went really well with the story. Sometimes, it was obvious that a certain situation was revolving around a specific moment just to get it across. But, at the end of the show, i am glad that it did not let itself fall into ridiculousness, and instead maintained a balance between story and writers' ideologies. I am bummed that there won't be a second season because Rise was an upward curve of improvement, development and cute moments, which intentionally left multiple plots unresolved. I almost forgot the music. Oh, damn, the music. Oh, damn, the voices. Oh, damn, the talent. Oh, damn, Auli'i Cravalho.

janinelavoie The first few episodes may look like something we've seen before but if you get past those this truly is unlike anything on tv. The characters develope to be relatable, the story hits on some major subjects that need to be talked about, and the family aspect is refreshing. I like these actors and think it deserves another season. "As we all go through life different people influence us in different ways. Our family, our friends, some we know for our entire lives while others we may know for only a short time. But every once in a while someone comes along that truly makes a profound difference in our lives. Someone who not only inspires us, motivates those around them but through their courage they help an entire town rise above."

britkiser Rise is a show that makes you feel. You can relate and is something that we didn't know we needed until it was here.

jclawrence78 The first episode or two seemed to plod along, meandering, trying to find its footing while providing the introductions and exposition to get everyone on the same page. I wasn't sure I was going to stick with it, but I'm glad I did, as it has since picked up the tempo and the intensity, and I think today's youth would benefit from seeing themselves on the screen, much as my generation did with shows like "My So-Called Life." It doesn't gloss over the myriad issues kids today are facing (man, I feel so old saying these things), but it also shows the difficulties and challenges faced by the parents and adults. I hope the show is picked up again, as it has great potential and a talented cast.