Early on in Angelique Molina and Abraham Troen’s infectiously emotional musical documentary Just Sing, an interview subject explains that “Pitch Perfect made a cappella cool.” But for the members of the SoCal VoCals, a capella is about more than just having fun. Many of the students in the University of Southern California’s premiere vocal group are music majors, pursuing their dreams of stardom with boundless ambition and a relentless work ethic. This iteration of the VoCals is the most diverse in the group’s history, adding another layer of expectation from immigrant parents who have devoted their lives to their children’s success. Not to mention that the VoCals are competing for an unprecedented sixth win at the national collegiate championships in New York City!

Despite the extraordinary pressures being placed on these young people, Just Sing still finds plenty of time for joy. The VoCals’ passion is evident in scenes capturing their performances in the rehearsal room and on stage, and members speak lovingly about the lifelong friendships they’ve made in the group. Add a soundtrack of pop bangers and you’ve got a documentary where the high notes and the low notes are both perfectly in tune.—Cara Cusumano

After the Premiere: A special performance by the SoCal VoCals.

Abraham Troen and Angelique Molina