School of Rock

Cast: Jack Black, Adam Pascal, Joan Cusack, Sarah Silverman and Chris Stack

Director: Richard Linklater

Release Date: 2003

Running Time: 1hr 49 minutes

Genre: Comedy

Rating: PG

Format: Amazon Prime UK

Synopsis:

After Dewey Finn is kicked out of his rock band, he becomes a substitute teacher for a strict elementary school, hoping to turn his class into a rock band.

Dewey Finn (Jack Black) owes his flat mates $2200 in rent, his rock band has had enough of his stage dives and twenty minute solo's, after being threatened to get kicked out his flat and fired from his band. Dewey poses as his friend Ned as a 4th grade substitute teacher at a local Elementary school. Turning up to his first day at work with a hangover, his class aren't convinced. One day after having a sudden epiphany, he comes up with the great idea of starting a rock band with his class. Inspired by their talent he enters them into the Battle of the Bands. Jack Black is not to everyone's liking, however his characters often match his very eccentric personality perfectly. Brilliantly extroverted, Black is terrific as Dewey Finn.

The storyline focuses excellently on the importance of following our dreams. We all have hidden gifts and talents. The storyline is not only wonderfully entertaining but brilliantly inspiring. Although most of the child stars are relatively unknown, they all deliver great performances. The idea of a substitute teacher starting a rock band is a pretty interesting prospect. Not all children are naturally academic, some children will find their talents lay in a more creative field, such as music. Joan Cusack stars as the Principal of the school Rosaline Mullins. Cusack's character Mullins is close minded when it comes to experimental education. Music has not only been proven to be therapeutic, but proved to help people learn too.

The soundtrack to the film is tremendous. The score coincides with the storyline brilliantly, with big names like AC/DC, Kiss, The Who and The Clash. It's surprising that Jack Black's band Tenacious D didn't make an appearance. Fantastically directed by Richard Linklater and wonderfully written by Mike White. A terrific family film that will inspire children of all ages to follow their dreams. Wonderfully entertaining and funny. Jack Black delivers one of his best performances as Dewey Finn. An absolute must watch.

5/5 stars