Christian Toto The Washington Times - November 5, 2008, 01:02PM

Folks over the age of 65 aren’t clamoring to see “High School Musical 3” - even if the older ladies think Zac Efron is cute as a proverbial button.

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But seniors might take solace in the fact that “HSM3” could help bring movie musicals back into vogue.

Now, you’re not going to see a modern day version of Judy Garland or Fred Astaire any time soon. But the breakout success of “HSM3” and “Mamma Mia” means there’s a big ol’ audience out there itching to see singing and dancing on screen. And don’t think the major studios haven’t noticed. Why else greenlight a remake of “Footloose” starring Efron himself?

Best of all, the recent “sing-a-long” versions of “HSM3” (opening Friday in select theaters) and “Mamma Mia” are re-enforcing the communal aspect of movie going. It’s the one area that your big, glossy flat-screen TV can’t replicate.