Norman Warner (John Astin) was a stellar instructor for a school system in a small city. But, after winning "teacher of the year" awards for years, he suffered a heart attack and died. His son, Matt (David Paymer) is a teacher, also, and has aspirations of his own to be a stand-out, trophy-winning class leader. But, his style is very different from his dad's, more "by the book" and few students really like him, including his own teenage son who attends the school. Then, too, the place just got a fabulous new teacher, Mr. DeAngelo (Ryan Reynolds) who makes history instruction come alive with many creative techniques. It would appear that Mr. D has much better chance of winning accolades, thus ruining the Warner family's long line of awards. Can you spell competition? Then, too, although a lovely young female teacher has a crush on Mr. D, he discourages her advances beyond friendship. Are there more secrets to tumble out? This was truly another good entry into the genre of "school movies", such as Dangerous Minds, School of Rock and the like. Alternating between upbeat and sad themes, it has some good lessons to convey. The cast is nice, with Paymer and Reynolds doing fine work as the principal actors, although initially it seems RR is all wrong for the part. The rest of the players do a nice job as well. Aiding in the film's success, too, are the attractive setting, costumes, camera-work, script and direction. In short, do go "back to school" and make time to view this sweet little winner. It has some hidden values behind its lighter moments.
Review of School of Life
School of Life
(2005 TV Movie)
Go back to school and view this honor roll-type flick soon!
14 July 2010