The third instalment of the Disney Channel phenomenon takes a bow on the big screen for the first time, bidding a tearful farewell to the actors who have made the series a success.

The senior class of East High School prepares to graduate. Troy Bolton (Zac Efron) and best buddy Chad Danforth (Corbin Bleu) are looking forward to playing basketball together, on opposite sides of the country to girlfriends Gabriella Montez (Vanessa Hudgens) and Taylor McKessie (Monique Coleman).

Attention-seeking twins Sharpay (Ashley Tisdale) and Ryan Evans (Lucas Grabeel) hope to achieve the fame and adoration they have always craved.

The teenagers agree to take part in one final musical, inspired by their lives. As usual, Sharpay tries to steal the limelight, plotting with her brother to woo talented composer Kelsi Nielson (Olesya Rulin), who writes the best songs for lovebirds Troy and Gabriella.

When drama teacher Ms Darbus (Alyson Reed) confides that two guests from the world-renowned Juilliard performing arts conservatory will attend the show to award a scholarship, perky classmates pull out all the stops to ensure a standing ovation.

This episode does not stray very far from the winning formula of teen romance coupled with high energy dance numbers.

The themes of friends moving on are familiar from a million other ten movies but its fresh, vibrant production marks it out as a winner.