Just as the first installment of the "High School Musical" trilogy is flawed, the second film, 2007's "High School Musical 2," has its share of questionable moments. Here, we meet the Evans family in full, and quickly realize where Sharpay's entitlement comes from. As the film takes place at her wealthy family's country club, we get to see the whole Evans clan in all their shady glory. The Evans elders blatantly attempt to bribe Troy into dating their infatuated daughter in a variety of ways. Worst of all, they pressure him to agree to a performance with Sharpay as payment for them hooking him up with college scouts.
These scenes are scummy and uncomfortable, but as they play out, you can't help but feel bad for Sharpay. Instead of sitting her down and telling her that she deserves someone who loves her and appreciates her for who she is, her parents instill the belief that there's not a single problem in the world that won't clear up after flashing a wad of cash. Now, it's clear that Sharpay's parents care about her, and they're certainly present in her life. But their message is toxic. Frankly, their daughter deserves better. She's capable of compassion and rising above a catty demeanor — something she proves multiple times. But her parents only reinforce the worst parts of her personality.
