XOXO

XOXO is a captivating American drama and music-filled movie released in 2016. The film showcases the increasing embracing of the Electronic Dance Music (EDM) culture while also projecting the highs and lows, successes and failures, love, and dreams of six strangers whose lives intersect at a magical EDM festival. Directed by Christopher Louie, the film predominantly casts talented young actors - Sarah Hyland, Graham Phillips, and Brett DelBuono.

The film presents the story of Ethan Shaw (Graham Phillips), an aspiring young DJ, who composes and uploads his tracks online a month before one of the biggest rave festivals in the country, XOXO. A chance re-circulation of his music online leads to his work going viral, trailing an invitation for him to perform live on the main stage of the festival.

Sarah Hyland, primarily known for her role in the TV show "Modern Family," surprises viewers as Krystal, a small-town girl who embarks on a journey to the festival to connect with a guy she met online, yet had never seen. Simultaneously, Ethan is grappling with his sudden and unexpected fame, the pressures of performing live in front of thousands of people, and battling his nerves.

The film intricately explores the solo journeys of four other characters, which lead them to this monumental event. Neil - played by Chris D'Elia, represents the quintessential, cynical thirtysomething who's just not into the "rave scene," while Brett DelBuono portrays the role of Tariq, Ethan's' overbearing yet well-meaning manager and best friend, navigating his way around the event organizers. On the other hand, the pair of Neil and Denise, a frustrated couple, amusingly try to sell tickets outside the festival venue.

The film fuses the elements of drama, romance, and high-energy music, delivering a rich and robust portrayal of youth, dreams, love, and shared hope in the magical world of music. These six distinct lives intertwine, learn, and grow in the backdrop of a massive EDM festival, and this forms the crux of the story.

Being a film targeting music, special emphasis has been laid on creating a perfect, thrilling EDM soundtrack to complement the narrative. With heart-thumping tracks from the likes of Galantis, Jack Ü, Skrillex and Diplo, the movie becomes a virtual EDM festival, pushing the viewer onto the dance floor. The pumping, energetic music becomes the baseline pulse of the movie, driving the plot.

The director has artfully used vibrant colors and mesmerizing light shows, tracing the authenticity of a music festival and creating a visually spectacular kaleidoscope. The cinematic craftsmanship employed successfully recreates the electrifying atmosphere of an EDM festival, making it a visual treat.

Sarah Hyland shines as Krystal, effectively leaving a footprint with her charming and heartfelt performance. Graham Phillips, as the introverted and talented DJ, embodies the spirit of young musicians who aspire to break out. And Brett DelBuono, in his role as Tariq, superbly portrays the dynamics of friendship and the struggles of the music industry. The stellar performances by the cast, coupled with an invigorating soundtrack, provide the film with its compelling narrative force.

XOXO, besides being a compelling cinematic experience, is also a depiction of the collective consciousness of young people, their desires, uncertainties, dreams, and the solace they find in music. More than just a film about a music festival, it is a story about dreams, love, ambition, and the journey of self-discovery. It beautifully captures the essence of a moment that may be fleeting but is momentously transformative, making the movie as much about humanity and connections as it is about EDM.

The film undoubtedly will resonate with young people, EDM enthusiasts, and anyone who's ever chased a dream or, quite simply, the thrill of one night. XOXO is not just a movie but a tribute to the spirit of youth, authenticity, music, and the extraordinary moments that define our lives. It is a must-watch for all music lovers who appreciate a good heartfelt storyline.