Review of The School of Rock (2003) by Adam F — 21 Jun 2013

If you want an example of dead-on, perfect casting, "School of Rock" is an excellent example. Jack Black looks, sounds and feels like his character in real life and seeing him on the screen is a real delight. Black plays "Dewey Finn" a rock-loving loser who impersonates his roommate and takes a job substitute teaching rich kids to pay the rent. At first he couldn't give a care about the kids but when he learns how little they know about rock-'n-roll and how much talent they've got he transforms the classroom into a band. At first his motives are selfish but as the movie goes along you wonder if he might not be growing fond of the kids and if he might not learn something from them in return...

So yeah, the premise isn't the most original and you can see where a lot of the movie is going but that's really the fun of it all. "Dewey" is a loveable goofball and his enthusiasm for music is really infectious. As he teaches the kids about his musical idols you start really loving him and understanding his character. When it comes to the kids, they are very charismatic and real sweethearts. Some of them have their own insecurities and issues and you see how this gift of music that they're given by this fraud of a teacher really helps boost their self-esteem and create a bond between all of them. There's also a lot of talent, be it in the acting or in musical terms when it comes to these kids and it's a real delight to follow them through the school year. The music has some great tunes, the script contains a lot of good laughs, some sweet moments and that right dash of "sticking' it to the man" that will have you cheering. The movie also ends on just the right note, acknowledging some of the more far fetch'd elements and wrapping it all very nicely. Although there is no sequel, you'll really wish there was because you've grown attached to all of the characters in the film and some of the younger actors/actresses are so sweet you will demand to see them again (particularly Miranda Cosgrove as "Summer").

"School of Rock" is that perfect "family" movie, that movie that's a ton of fun to follow, regardless of your age or taste in music. Seeing it you understand the power that the arts have, particularly in young, influential minds and don't be surprised if it lights up a little fire inside you. There are a lot of laughs, a terrific cast and some downright touching parts too so don't shy away from this movie, you'll have a terrific time watching it. (4 1/2 stars, Fullscreen version on Dvd, June 16, 2013) (3 1/2 stars, ??/??/2008).