For Dewey Finn, rock ‘n’ roll isn’t about fame, fortune, getting wasted or scoring chicks. It’s about “sticking it to the man!” It’s about the love of the music! It’s about putting on the most rocking show ever! After all, one great rock show can change the world…
Unfortunately, not everybody shares his sentimental views, and soon things take a turn for the worst. Dewey gets fired from his own rock band for his uncontrollable stage diving and endless guitar solos. And to make matters worse, his reformed-rocker roommate (Mike White) is being hounded by his girlfriend (Sarah Silverman) to get Dewey to cough up the rent.
So what’s a guy to do? If you’re the average Joe you give up your rock ‘n’ roll dreams and settle down into the real world.
But if you’re Dewey Finn, you pose as your roommate to make some extra money substitute teaching at the uptight Horace Green Prep School. Then you take advantage of your musically inclined students, give them a little ‘Rock 101’ and form a band.
The generic plot with its down and out guy touching the lives of talented young children (think “Mighty Ducks”, or worse, Keanu Reeve’s “Hardball”) could’ve fallen flat on its face. Instead Black’s outrageous physical humor saves this film from being a sentimental cesspool of suck.
But don’t expect the typical profanity laden gross-out humor that’s so prevalent these days. The film, written by White and directed by Richard Linklater (who are widely known for their dark independent comedies about social misfits) has a surprisingly light feel.
It is after all, about kids, and is in the end a family film – that rocks hard. But don’t worry; this film has as much appeal for you as it does for your 13 year old brother.
Perhaps the most impressive part of the film is not Black but the children in the film and their immense musical talent. For most of the children, this is their first film. White sought out kids that were musicians first, and made them into actors. Their musical talent certainly shines through.
Joey Gaydos, who plays guitar prodigy Zack, is only 12 years old but is one of the most impressive young guitarists to grace the big screen. In fact, he’s been playing guitar since he was three years old. Other musical standouts include the soul-singing Tomika (Maryam Hassan) and bad-boy drummer Kevin (Kevin Alexander Clark).
Don’t be surprised if these kids are in bands ten years from now.
This film also boasts an excellent soundtrack, featuring Stevie Nicks, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin and The Who, for those who need a little ‘Rock 101’ of their own.
This could’ve been Jack Black’s “Mr. Holland’s Opus,” too full of sugary sentiments. Thankfully it’s not.
Instead, it’s a sweet, funny film that makes you want to go home and dig through the old classic albums.
Most importantly, it reminds you that real rock ‘n’ roll never takes itself too seriously.
Leave a Reply