School of Rock

Dewey Finn (Black - best known for his scene-stealing role as sweaty music-snob Barry in High Fidelity) is self-anointed rock and roll god, but when his band fire him for his OTT stage antics all hopes of winning a regional Battle of the Bands contest go out the window. That is until he takes a phone call for substitute-teacher flatmate Ned and decides to impersonate him to earn some cash. In his position at the elite prep school Dewey realises he can=92t fob the class off with day-long recess but when he learns a handful of them are talented musicians he embarks on a mission=85to teach them how to rock. Coming up against the stressed-out school principal (Cusack), his flatmates -personality-devoid Ned and his uber-bitch girlfriend, and eventually a mob of angry parents who believed their kids are being abused, Dewey conducts a covert operation of entering the kids in the Battle of the Bands competition for the $25,000 prize.

On paper this has the predictable formula of every other Mighty Ducks-esque film where a group of misfit kids come good under the guidance of an adult who believes in them. However, this is a lot better than expected and is full of laugh out loud moments, including Dewey handing out AC/DC, Led Zeppelin and The Who CDs for homework. Jack Black as the lead is utterly convincing and as real-life rocker in Tenacious D, all Dewey’s passion is clearly shared by the actor. The rest of the cast are on fine form, especially the kids with whom Black has a natural rapport. Joan Cusack as the Principal is also funny but essentially the cast are eclipsed by Black’s enormous presence.

This film is essentially a Jack Black showcase for his talent and infectious passion for old school rock. A natural performer he is totally at ease in the spotlight and it is a joy to sit back and watch. The plot may be far-fetched and the thought of a man getting into a classroom under a false identity is=85well you know. However, this is harmless fun for young and old and the soundtrack is amazing; a must see.

Hannah Upton