Review of The Emperor's Club (2002) by L R — 05 Jun 2016

For those "acclaimed" critics and the average Joes who feel this movie was dull and cliché, I have news for you: academia is both, at times.

However, this film surprised me. It was not predictable in the least--characters took chances and did not follow the predicted recipe that most Hollywood offerings of this topic do. It was refreshing to see life reflected in the storyline. If you are a teacher, you will especially enjoy the portrayal of Hundert, as there will always be a Sedgewick Bell in your classroom at some point in your career.

The lesson is a good one, albeit late-coming for the otherwise seasoned character. There was no transformation here, just an affirmation that people most likely will aspire to their true nature and not everyone wants to "be saved." Anyone who was not moved by that point has a fantasy-perspective of education, and probably should learn more about the profession. For all his virtue, Hundert was also flawed, a point of which he is reminded at the very end. His integrity relatively still intact, he continues to practice what he preaches.

The story was perfectly executed, and the filmmakers should be commended for bringing a quality fictional story on academia to the public instead of the derived drivel Hollywood usually spits out at us.