There has not been a television show that has attained such a feat as High School Musical. What began as an original television movie for Disney Channel in 2006 quickly became a worldwide pop culture sensation. It turned its stars such as Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens and Ashley Tisdale into household names and millionaires. Not to mention the obscene amount of money it has made for the House of Mouse - television, DVDs, soundtracks, concert tour, stage musical, ice tour, books, video games, merchandising... every medium that High School Musical touched has turned to gold.

It's no surprise when it was announced that the third film would be a big-screen grand finale. What better way to tap a bigger audience? Though production cost has soared (no one will say how much, but HSM1 was shot for US$4.2 million or S$6 million, HSM2, US$7.8 million), the rewards from the third film will no doubt be massive.

Shot on location in Salt Lake City's East High School, Utah, High School Musical 3: Senior Year, as the title goes, is about the Wildcats' graduating year. Now high school seniors, sweethearts Troy Bolton (Efron) and Gabriella Montez (Hudgens) are facing the prospect of being separated from each other as they head off to different colleges. But before that happens, there's the much-anticipated prom, a state basketball championship and an elaborate spring musical that will keep the Wildcats occupied.

Efron, who was just 17 when the first instalment made its debut, has gone from a nobody to one who has graced numerous magazine covers, and whose every action is followed by the paparazzi. Now, there is a sea of opportunities for the young actor outside HSM. After his show-stopping performance in Hairspray last year, Efron was offered lead parts in the comedy 17 Again and Richard Linklater's Me and Orson Welles. It's no wonder that the 20-year-old heartthrob has said that he (and the primary cast members) won't be returning for the fourth film - if there ever is one.

But for now, Efron and gang are clearly enjoying the attention they are getting from HSM3. What better way to end "school" with a big bang?