CWC: Linda Linda Linda

Perhaps the most charming teen movie I've seen in awhile, Linda Linda Linda, rocks the mic with the girl power of a cover band.

When the lead guitarist injures her middle finger days before the festival and inner squabbling forces the lead singer to quit, band leader Kei decides to trudge on. They find their singer in Son, the Korean exchange student who can barely understand Japanese, let alone sing. Nonetheless what results in a comedy that's so touching and incredibly satisfying to all.

Nobuhiro Yamashita's quirky sense is seen in the brilliant comedic timing of Son (Bae Donna) whose perplexed reactions to her bandmates result in some of the most hilarious interactions seen on screen. But underneath the overlay of teenaged unrequited loves lies a nicely inserted touch of the basic human need of belonging.

The popular soundtrack was a best seller in Japan, the original score was produced and written by James Iha, formerly of Smashing Pumpkins. While the music may not be for everyone's tastes, the sheer journey these girls went through make it a must see for all fans of music.