Charlie Bartlett is a good movie, nothing spectacular but it fulfilled my expectations very well. It is a very well written comedy with the perfect amount of drama. It is funny but not because its full of jokes or gags, the humor of this movie is a consequence of the situations in it. The plot about a wealthy teen (Yelchin) goes to a new public high school and ingratiates himself into its social fabric by using his charm to become the school's resident "psychiatrist" is good, its like a glimpse of how teenagers live nowadays. The cast composed entirely by young actors with the exception of Downey Jr. is good and they acted well. Robert Downey was good, Anton Yelchin in the role of Charlie, his performance was great. He was a excellent complement for Downey Jr. The rest of the cast like Kat Dennings and Hope Davis were a great support for the movie. In conclusion, this is an entertaining movie that is worthy just to watch Downey Jr. and Yelchin acting together.
105 Reviews
Charming Charlie
Quebec_Dragon2 July 2009
If you're pining for a modern John Hughes type teen comedy (such as Breakfast Club or Ferris Bueller's Day Off), then Charlie Bartlett would certainly fit the bill. It's like an anti-American Pie. The teens are not obsessed with sex, it has heart and even a few dramatic elements. It's not as funny as American Pie type movies but that's not the point. Charlie Bartlett is basically a good-hearted very smart rich kid expelled from all his previous private schools who wants to be popular and becomes a kind of psychiatrist for his fellow classmates in a "normal" public high school.
The actor portraying him did a remarkable job showing his eccentricities while keeping him likable and sweet despite his less than legal actions. I'm not quite sure how likely such a character would be in real life but he's certainly interesting. I also enjoyed the other teens portrayed (most being two-dimensional instead of one-dimensional caricatures) and wish there had been more washroom confessionals. Robert Downey Jr is once again wonderful as a loving father and tormented principal who's not completely "evil" as in most movies of this type. I liked the understated uncomplicated romantic aspect and it kind of made me wish for first love again although I've seen this done better in several other movies. Overall, it's a charming teen movie, not overtly real-life melodramatic, nor overtly over-the-top ridiculous, as we rarely see in this cynical 21st century. It's a good rental and a decent purchase if you like high school dramatic comedies.
Rating: 7 out of 10
The actor portraying him did a remarkable job showing his eccentricities while keeping him likable and sweet despite his less than legal actions. I'm not quite sure how likely such a character would be in real life but he's certainly interesting. I also enjoyed the other teens portrayed (most being two-dimensional instead of one-dimensional caricatures) and wish there had been more washroom confessionals. Robert Downey Jr is once again wonderful as a loving father and tormented principal who's not completely "evil" as in most movies of this type. I liked the understated uncomplicated romantic aspect and it kind of made me wish for first love again although I've seen this done better in several other movies. Overall, it's a charming teen movie, not overtly real-life melodramatic, nor overtly over-the-top ridiculous, as we rarely see in this cynical 21st century. It's a good rental and a decent purchase if you like high school dramatic comedies.
Rating: 7 out of 10
A superbly acted and highly absorbing comedy film
vovazhd11 February 2008
Charlie Bartlett is a comedy film about Charlie, a rich kid who drops out of a private high school and experiences culture shock after enrolling into a public school. After being an outcast for a few days, he gains popularity by setting up a dubious enterprise that distributes medical drugs around the school. At the same time, he discovers that he has an ability to counsel and give advice to other students. Their problems include substance abuse, depression, and identity crisis. It turns out that the adults also have problems of their own. Charlie soon learns that things are not as simple as he originally expected.
The acting is the best aspect of the film. Anton Yelchin fits perfectly as Charlie. He has the ideal attitude and personality for the role. The gestures and facial expressions are spot on. This makes for an extremely likable and charismatic main character. For most of the film, Principal Gardner serves as Charlie's opposition. Robert Downy Jr. does a terrific job as Gardner, conveying a wide range of emotions that makes you truly sympathize him. The rest of the cast (mostly other students in the school) are likable in their own ways. Despite their personal flaws, you can see a change in most (although not all) of them throughout the film.
The plot has some good ideas in it. It carries some great messages about our personal and social lives. I would have liked to see some of the plot lines carried further. For example, the story surrounding Charlie's father is very artificial and felt like it was tagged on simply to make Charlie look more imperfect. With a little imagination, a whole lot more could have been done with it. Also, it felt like the conclusion did not implement all the ideas together.
The dialog and writing was a mixed result. Generally, it was good and even excelled at some moments. But there were other parts that seemed too over the top or plain silly. Granted, it was walking a thin line between comedy and drama, but it could have felt more realistic.
I hope I don't sound too critical, because I enjoyed Charlie Bartlett and would definitely watch it again. The characters were good and the plot was interesting. It has more substance than the usual comedy. If IMDb's voting scales were more incremented, it would perfectly fit in as a 7.5/10. A good comedy to start the year off, don't hesitate to check it out.
The acting is the best aspect of the film. Anton Yelchin fits perfectly as Charlie. He has the ideal attitude and personality for the role. The gestures and facial expressions are spot on. This makes for an extremely likable and charismatic main character. For most of the film, Principal Gardner serves as Charlie's opposition. Robert Downy Jr. does a terrific job as Gardner, conveying a wide range of emotions that makes you truly sympathize him. The rest of the cast (mostly other students in the school) are likable in their own ways. Despite their personal flaws, you can see a change in most (although not all) of them throughout the film.
The plot has some good ideas in it. It carries some great messages about our personal and social lives. I would have liked to see some of the plot lines carried further. For example, the story surrounding Charlie's father is very artificial and felt like it was tagged on simply to make Charlie look more imperfect. With a little imagination, a whole lot more could have been done with it. Also, it felt like the conclusion did not implement all the ideas together.
The dialog and writing was a mixed result. Generally, it was good and even excelled at some moments. But there were other parts that seemed too over the top or plain silly. Granted, it was walking a thin line between comedy and drama, but it could have felt more realistic.
I hope I don't sound too critical, because I enjoyed Charlie Bartlett and would definitely watch it again. The characters were good and the plot was interesting. It has more substance than the usual comedy. If IMDb's voting scales were more incremented, it would perfectly fit in as a 7.5/10. A good comedy to start the year off, don't hesitate to check it out.
Decent movie
natuin5 April 2020
Charlie Bartlett is a fun movie. I watched it because it was free on Amazon Prime video. The story is solid and the characters have convincing dilemmas. Sometimes the movie tries really hard to be edgy or cool which is kind of annoying, but the emotional parts of this film brought the rating up to a 6/10. Good film to watch if you're stuck inside or have a day off
A big cut above the typical teen movie, but...
Kevin_Maness24 July 2007
I saw this in a members' preview at the wonderful Bryn Mawr Film Institute.
I truly enjoyed this movie. It was smart, hilarious, well-acted (especially Downey, Yelchin, and Davis), and well-scripted. I definitely recommend it, but not with the type of superlatives that other commenters have used here.
If my regard for this movie fades over the coming days, it will be in part because it's so easy to write a "recipe" for the film: it's 3 parts Pump Up the Volume, 1 part Rushmore, a generous dollop of closure, and enough cuteness and sweetness to smooth all the potential edginess out of the subject matter. Unfortunately, it's the sweetness that renders this movie inferior to both of those earlier movies (which are excellent). Once I was struck by the Pump Up the Volume comparison, I couldn't shake it, and I kept thinking that, although it has not aged wonderfully, Pump Up the Volume was the more honest and hard-hitting movie, and Rushmore was simply better.
I truly enjoyed this movie. It was smart, hilarious, well-acted (especially Downey, Yelchin, and Davis), and well-scripted. I definitely recommend it, but not with the type of superlatives that other commenters have used here.
If my regard for this movie fades over the coming days, it will be in part because it's so easy to write a "recipe" for the film: it's 3 parts Pump Up the Volume, 1 part Rushmore, a generous dollop of closure, and enough cuteness and sweetness to smooth all the potential edginess out of the subject matter. Unfortunately, it's the sweetness that renders this movie inferior to both of those earlier movies (which are excellent). Once I was struck by the Pump Up the Volume comparison, I couldn't shake it, and I kept thinking that, although it has not aged wonderfully, Pump Up the Volume was the more honest and hard-hitting movie, and Rushmore was simply better.
A comedy with a message, wildly entertaining
larry-41113 May 2007
Charlie Bartlett is a comedy with a message. Some may say that's an oxymoron. But Jon Poll, directing from a Gustin Nash script, takes on the task and turns in a hybrid of a film that is so incredibly engaging you'll wonder why few filmmakers take on such a challenge. The audience was so loud and boisterous at the World Premiere screening at the Tribeca Film Festival that it sent the laugh meter off the scale.
Anton Yelchin is Charlie Bartlett, a kid born with a silver spoon in his mouth and an enterprising, albeit mischievous, brain. His antics get him kicked out of one private school after another. But his clever and earnest sincerity is bound to hit the target sooner or later and it does when he is thrown to the public school wolves. The scheme he invents to endear himself to the student body is nothing short of genius, and his performance fits the bill.
Yelchin has made a name for himself playing the smart, sensitive, and innocent tortured kid. Here he gets the chance to stretch his acting chops in a completely different direction. He's confident and anything but vulnerable. The wide range of emotions and the talents he shows here are unsurpassed. He sings, he dances, he plays piano, he does physical comedy and has fight scenes and romantic scenes and just about everything that could be thrown at him. And he looks to be so thoroughly enjoying it, which comes across on screen and proves to be so central to the film. After all, to enjoy a film one must identify somewhat with the protagonist, or at least like him, and Anton does that better than many actors twice his age.
Hope Davis is a riot as his not-quite-all-there mother. It's easy to see the source of Charlie's quirkiness. The relationship between mother and son is playful and mischievous, the kind of "mom as best friend" scenario which often results in tragedy. Here it's played just for laughs, and it works. She is everymom - with a twist of lemon.
Tyler Hilton is perfectly cast as the bully who we know from the start is destined to soften up somewhere along the way. That's what movie bullies do. But he brings an especially charming quality to the role which plays perfectly against Charlie's leanings toward the dark side. It's a delicate balance but Yelchin and Hilton make it work.
Robert Downey Jr. is ironically cast as the substance-addled principal who also happens to be the father of Charlie's love interest. One has to wonder whether Principal Gardner or Downey is speaking in some of the more poignant scenes about alcohol and drugs. It's chilling. Perhaps for that reason alone he is a standout here.
Kat Dennings plays the girl who is out to win Charlie's heart. The dynamic with Downey and Yelchin is a natural source of drama. This is the film's most heartfelt storyline, and Dennings is admirably up to the task.
At times it all feels so real, and it's no wonder -- writer Gustin Nash actually continued to write scenes and dialogue specifically for those actors after the film got underway and it shows.
Charlie Bartlett has the look and feel of a studio film, which should help it find an audience. The subject matter demands an R rating, if only for its content. But it's a film kids need to see. The message is squarely aimed at teens, even younger ones, and parents need to take heed. In the guise of a comedy, a good one at that, Charlie Bartlett has something meaningful to say about the excuses we use to justify our behavior and the chemical coping methods so many of us cling to. And it's d*mn funny.
Anton Yelchin is Charlie Bartlett, a kid born with a silver spoon in his mouth and an enterprising, albeit mischievous, brain. His antics get him kicked out of one private school after another. But his clever and earnest sincerity is bound to hit the target sooner or later and it does when he is thrown to the public school wolves. The scheme he invents to endear himself to the student body is nothing short of genius, and his performance fits the bill.
Yelchin has made a name for himself playing the smart, sensitive, and innocent tortured kid. Here he gets the chance to stretch his acting chops in a completely different direction. He's confident and anything but vulnerable. The wide range of emotions and the talents he shows here are unsurpassed. He sings, he dances, he plays piano, he does physical comedy and has fight scenes and romantic scenes and just about everything that could be thrown at him. And he looks to be so thoroughly enjoying it, which comes across on screen and proves to be so central to the film. After all, to enjoy a film one must identify somewhat with the protagonist, or at least like him, and Anton does that better than many actors twice his age.
Hope Davis is a riot as his not-quite-all-there mother. It's easy to see the source of Charlie's quirkiness. The relationship between mother and son is playful and mischievous, the kind of "mom as best friend" scenario which often results in tragedy. Here it's played just for laughs, and it works. She is everymom - with a twist of lemon.
Tyler Hilton is perfectly cast as the bully who we know from the start is destined to soften up somewhere along the way. That's what movie bullies do. But he brings an especially charming quality to the role which plays perfectly against Charlie's leanings toward the dark side. It's a delicate balance but Yelchin and Hilton make it work.
Robert Downey Jr. is ironically cast as the substance-addled principal who also happens to be the father of Charlie's love interest. One has to wonder whether Principal Gardner or Downey is speaking in some of the more poignant scenes about alcohol and drugs. It's chilling. Perhaps for that reason alone he is a standout here.
Kat Dennings plays the girl who is out to win Charlie's heart. The dynamic with Downey and Yelchin is a natural source of drama. This is the film's most heartfelt storyline, and Dennings is admirably up to the task.
At times it all feels so real, and it's no wonder -- writer Gustin Nash actually continued to write scenes and dialogue specifically for those actors after the film got underway and it shows.
Charlie Bartlett has the look and feel of a studio film, which should help it find an audience. The subject matter demands an R rating, if only for its content. But it's a film kids need to see. The message is squarely aimed at teens, even younger ones, and parents need to take heed. In the guise of a comedy, a good one at that, Charlie Bartlett has something meaningful to say about the excuses we use to justify our behavior and the chemical coping methods so many of us cling to. And it's d*mn funny.
A more ambitious teen comedy that is dragged down by a muddled story.
stewiefan2012 March 2008
Charlie Bartlett (Anton Yelchin) has been kicked out of every private school he's ever went to. Finally after being kicked out of another school, his mother Marilyn (Hope Davis) decides to send him to public school. On his first day Charlie comes to school in a suit and ends up being beaten and humiliated by the school bully Murphy (Tyler Hilton). He makes no friends at first but he does have a crush on the principal's daughter Susan Gardner (Kat Dennings). Principal Gardner (Robert Downey Jr) is an alcoholic who is losing his daughter, and also hates his job. Meanwhile Charlie is sent to a psychiatrist who gives him a Ritalin prescription, causing Charlie to get high. Charlie then realizes how he can make all new friends and achieve popularity. Charlie begins having therapeutic sessions in the boy's bathroom, and also deals prescription drugs to the students. Students are lining up outside the door to see Charlie, which attracts the attention of Principal Gardner who now has to try to keep his daughter away from Charlie, while trying to end Charlies control over the school.
Charlie Bartlett presents us with the teen character stereotypes and a constant "John Hughes" look and feel to it. However Charlie's claim to fame through selling medicines would not prosper in real life like in the film. In real life Charlie would have been found out quickly if kids lined up to see him. Also Ritalin does not get you that high in reality like it did to the kids in the movie, but I can forgive that. Except for Charlie, Principal Gardner, Susan, and the bully Murphy (who turns into Charlie's assistant) there aren't really any other well developed characters. There is one character named Kip (Mark Rendall) who has a lot of depression and suicidal problems, and is Charlie's first patient. Something big happens with his character in the end but the movie forgets about him until the end. Robert Downey Jr's character is an alcohol abuser, basically mirroring his own past. Robert Downey Jr is the best part of the whole movie, and Anton Yelchin shows exceptional talent.
The movie does work in some ways however. I liked the bully's characterization and how he turned out in the end. Charlie Bartlett seems like a spoiled kid with a ton of issues, and his dealing of drugs to kids to achieve popularity is nothing but wrong. Although the movie realizes this by the end. I can definitely commend Charlie Bartlett as being better than the average teen comedy. It is more ambitious and does not follow all the stupid vulgar jokes that we usually see in a movie like this. Charlie Bartlett is more mature and understanding of actual problems and issues that exist in teenagers and adults alike. One problem however is that the movie turns out more serious than funny. I didn't really laugh too hard during many scenes, which I'm guessing may disappoint some audiences. The scene involving Charlie taking Ritalin for a week and showing him getting high, and playing fast piano scores, and dancing around the street in his underwear. This scene is very funny but the rest of the movie is not.
Overall Charlie Bartlett is more ambitious and goes down a different road than regular teen comedies. It's message of how you gain popularity is true. But the movie just isn't that funny because of how muddled the story becomes. Charlie is not really that likable which may have been the point, I'm not so sure. I give Charlie Bartlett a 2.5 out of 4. The movie is not funny or strong enough to be memorable.
Charlie Bartlett presents us with the teen character stereotypes and a constant "John Hughes" look and feel to it. However Charlie's claim to fame through selling medicines would not prosper in real life like in the film. In real life Charlie would have been found out quickly if kids lined up to see him. Also Ritalin does not get you that high in reality like it did to the kids in the movie, but I can forgive that. Except for Charlie, Principal Gardner, Susan, and the bully Murphy (who turns into Charlie's assistant) there aren't really any other well developed characters. There is one character named Kip (Mark Rendall) who has a lot of depression and suicidal problems, and is Charlie's first patient. Something big happens with his character in the end but the movie forgets about him until the end. Robert Downey Jr's character is an alcohol abuser, basically mirroring his own past. Robert Downey Jr is the best part of the whole movie, and Anton Yelchin shows exceptional talent.
The movie does work in some ways however. I liked the bully's characterization and how he turned out in the end. Charlie Bartlett seems like a spoiled kid with a ton of issues, and his dealing of drugs to kids to achieve popularity is nothing but wrong. Although the movie realizes this by the end. I can definitely commend Charlie Bartlett as being better than the average teen comedy. It is more ambitious and does not follow all the stupid vulgar jokes that we usually see in a movie like this. Charlie Bartlett is more mature and understanding of actual problems and issues that exist in teenagers and adults alike. One problem however is that the movie turns out more serious than funny. I didn't really laugh too hard during many scenes, which I'm guessing may disappoint some audiences. The scene involving Charlie taking Ritalin for a week and showing him getting high, and playing fast piano scores, and dancing around the street in his underwear. This scene is very funny but the rest of the movie is not.
Overall Charlie Bartlett is more ambitious and goes down a different road than regular teen comedies. It's message of how you gain popularity is true. But the movie just isn't that funny because of how muddled the story becomes. Charlie is not really that likable which may have been the point, I'm not so sure. I give Charlie Bartlett a 2.5 out of 4. The movie is not funny or strong enough to be memorable.
Funny, witty, accurate, and absolutely beautiful
blondy3608 April 2007
I saw an advanced screening of Charlie Bartlett at my school with a Q&A session with the writer and director last April, and I must say, I haven't enjoyed a movie this much in a VERY long time.
Anton Yelchin is Charlie Bartlett, a young rich boy who has just gotten kicked out of his private school for forging driver's licenses for his fellow students in an attempt to gain some acceptance. As a last resort, his strange mother, played wonderfully by Hope Davis, puts him into public school. At first, he is treated horribly as the 'new boy', until he appoints himself as the school psychiatrist and pharmacist, and the students begin to love him, fulfilling his dreams of popularity. Meanwhile, he begins an intimate relationship with Principal Goldberg's daughter, leading to many conflicts between Charlie and the principal.
Anton Yelchin portrays Charlie flawlessly - the best part was when he got high off of Ritalin - and Kat Dennings was just beautiful. Hope Davis, as always, played his eccentric mother wonderfully, and Robert Downey Jr. was absolutely great.
For any of you who are wondering about Mark Rendall's role in this film, he has a relatively large part as Kip Cromwell, the unpopular, depressed boy who comes to Charlie for help. I must say he is AMAZING. He does a beautiful job expressing his character's many and layered emotions.
Anyhow, GREAT MOVIE!!! Do whatever you can to see it as soon as you can. I would give it an 11/10 if I could!!
Anton Yelchin is Charlie Bartlett, a young rich boy who has just gotten kicked out of his private school for forging driver's licenses for his fellow students in an attempt to gain some acceptance. As a last resort, his strange mother, played wonderfully by Hope Davis, puts him into public school. At first, he is treated horribly as the 'new boy', until he appoints himself as the school psychiatrist and pharmacist, and the students begin to love him, fulfilling his dreams of popularity. Meanwhile, he begins an intimate relationship with Principal Goldberg's daughter, leading to many conflicts between Charlie and the principal.
Anton Yelchin portrays Charlie flawlessly - the best part was when he got high off of Ritalin - and Kat Dennings was just beautiful. Hope Davis, as always, played his eccentric mother wonderfully, and Robert Downey Jr. was absolutely great.
For any of you who are wondering about Mark Rendall's role in this film, he has a relatively large part as Kip Cromwell, the unpopular, depressed boy who comes to Charlie for help. I must say he is AMAZING. He does a beautiful job expressing his character's many and layered emotions.
Anyhow, GREAT MOVIE!!! Do whatever you can to see it as soon as you can. I would give it an 11/10 if I could!!
" No matter how bad things are for you, there's always someone worse off "
thinker169113 October 2009
The transitional age we all suffered through were our formative years, during High School. This is where you learn what you believe is wrong and what you didn't believed is even more wrong. It's at this very trying time, one learns in order to survive, one must adapt, ignore the obvious and embrace the impossible. This film called " Charlie Bartlett " deals with all those issues and more. It begins with young Charlie (Anton Yelchin) a teen who dreams of becoming the most popular boy in school. The reality is definitely the opposite. Although rich and spoiled by his dotting mother, Charlie who has caused so much trouble in private schools, has been transferred to public education. Here he begins by being out of place, out of step and out of touch. Between becoming a bully's (Murphey Bivens) daily punching bag and dreaming of popularity, his efforts only land him in the arms of a shrink who proscribes a plethora of pharmaceutical drugs. Realizing their true value with the student body, he not only starts selling drugs, but becomes a peer confident. The change of life brings many rewards, and growing popularity but unfortunately closer to the troubled Principal (Robert Downey Jr.) and his rebellious daughter (Kat Dennings). All the characters have issues and our hero makes use of his substantial gifts of persuasion. The movie is surprisingly interesting and should not be underrated. It's a fun film and one which holds the attention of multi generational audiences. Recommended to anyone with an open mind. ***
Yelchin's performance makes this worth watching
mistoppi10 June 2017
As a high school movie Charlie Bartlett is great. In the best movies, high school is never portrayed realistically, because it would be way too boring. High schools in movies are always way more colourful and have many big events during quite a short while. Stuff happens faster. It makes you kind of nostalgic for high school, while knowing it never was like that. But it's always fun to see typical sub-culture people like punks and goths and jocks and such, while the cliques might not have been so clear in your school.
Charlie Bartlett is both funny and sad. It's funny, because there definitely is humour there, even though it might be quite dark sometimes. Meanwhile it's also sad to see all these kids with their problems and seeing how little help they get - before Charlie shows up, of course.
However no matter how fun Charlie Bartlett might be, it feels also a bit boring. At least it's kind of a dull way to get all these deep, meaningful messages out. They get drowned in dialogue which isn't always that intriguing. There are several intense scenes that catch your attention though, but they are here and there and it's easy to not focus.
Charlie Bartlett is a good high school movie, but when it comes to movies in general, it's just decent. Most of it charms comes from Anton Yelchin, who was a talented, very present young actor. His performance alone makes this movie worth watching, however it doesn't quite reach my expectations.
Charlie Bartlett is both funny and sad. It's funny, because there definitely is humour there, even though it might be quite dark sometimes. Meanwhile it's also sad to see all these kids with their problems and seeing how little help they get - before Charlie shows up, of course.
However no matter how fun Charlie Bartlett might be, it feels also a bit boring. At least it's kind of a dull way to get all these deep, meaningful messages out. They get drowned in dialogue which isn't always that intriguing. There are several intense scenes that catch your attention though, but they are here and there and it's easy to not focus.
Charlie Bartlett is a good high school movie, but when it comes to movies in general, it's just decent. Most of it charms comes from Anton Yelchin, who was a talented, very present young actor. His performance alone makes this movie worth watching, however it doesn't quite reach my expectations.
Starts strong, but finishes like an After-School Special
ZebraGreg23 February 2008
This is the story: Charlie Bartlett, Anton Yelchin, is expelled from private school, and is sent to the public school by his rich Mom. He has high school outsider adventures until he sets himself up as an amateur psychiatrist with a illicit pharmacy, and then everyone loves him including the principal's daughter, Susan, played by Kat Dennings. The principal, played by Robert Downey Jr, has his own mental health issues, and this is an interesting plot twist, rather like Ferris Bueller's Day Off.
There are engaging performances from Anton Yelchin and Robert Downey Jr. They are fun to watch. I would like to see more from Anton. Kat Dennings and Hope Davis give interesting performances, but their characters are not as rich.
The first half of the movie where Charlie has problems and needs to solve them is far more interesting than when he is solving other people's problems. I did like the Kip Crombwell suicide episode.
This movie could have used some punched up dialog. It makes me appreciate Diablo Cody's Juno. The end was embarrassingly sappy. I almost closed my eyes.
There are engaging performances from Anton Yelchin and Robert Downey Jr. They are fun to watch. I would like to see more from Anton. Kat Dennings and Hope Davis give interesting performances, but their characters are not as rich.
The first half of the movie where Charlie has problems and needs to solve them is far more interesting than when he is solving other people's problems. I did like the Kip Crombwell suicide episode.
This movie could have used some punched up dialog. It makes me appreciate Diablo Cody's Juno. The end was embarrassingly sappy. I almost closed my eyes.
"like opening a lemonade stand in the desert"
ThomasDrufke3 August 2019
This is just the type of role that the late-great Anton Yelchin thrived in. Quirky, off-kilter, and yet charming young man, this time someone who is trying to get by selling drugs in a high school. Except, he's way more interested in becoming the 'psychiatrist' of the entire student body, with only a principal (played by Robert Downey Jr.) in his way. It's almost like a spiritual sequel/remake to Ferris Bueller's Day Off. The plot doesn't necessarily take you places unexplored in cinema, but the performances and unique aesthetic make it 90 minutes worth checking out. And hey, Anton gets to punch Downey in the face, that's worth seeing right?
6.6/10
6.6/10
Excellent message, average film
norahfields22 November 2017
There are so many kids out there trying to make the world a better place, trying to save people and do everything in their power to just give everyone a voice. It's important that these wonderful teenagers are reminded that they are just kids, they shouldn't have to be therapists and they shouldn't have the responsibility for someone's life and I think this movie tells that story really well.
Gustin Nash has written a heartfelt story and shows a knack for one liners, but Jon Poll's film technique falls a little short as the images to the words doesn't add to them enough.
It's a great film and I recommend watching it when you're feeling nostalgic or you need a cheering up, but this is not a go to film for when you want to experience a slap of pure cinema.
Gustin Nash has written a heartfelt story and shows a knack for one liners, but Jon Poll's film technique falls a little short as the images to the words doesn't add to them enough.
It's a great film and I recommend watching it when you're feeling nostalgic or you need a cheering up, but this is not a go to film for when you want to experience a slap of pure cinema.
Charlie Bartlett Session is in
MorganGrodecki19 February 2008
I highly doubt many of those who are reading this are old enough to remember the year 1986, or the theatrical release Ferris Bueller's Day Off (John Hughes). Still, I trust that there are those of you have seen the movie on TV, or DVD, or even on the prehistoric VHS. Well, the small-budget, diamond in the dust movie of the year borrows heavily from it, taking both old and new material and making it into something fresh. This hidden gem is Charlie Bartlett.
Charlie Bartlett is the story of a young high school student with roots in royalty. Seemingly destined for a posh life, he constantly finds himself in situations involving expulsions due to fraud (hundreds of fake I.D.s given to schoolmates, for example). Soon, Charlie has been kicked out of nearly every private school within 100 miles of his house-mansion. With no alternatives left, Charlie quickly finds himself attending a public school with regular, everyday students. From here, he decides the only way to fit in is to become a lord of sorts, and begins handing out prescription drugs to those students truly in need with no way of getting them, while playing the role of psychiatrist. Of course, this bears consequences in the form of the principle And said principle's daughter.
An intelligent and witty movie, Charlie Bartlett is this generations Ferris Bueller. From the smooth, careless main character, to the parents being completely exaggerated in every manner, it all fits. The dialogue flows well and is witty throughout. Many teens will walk out thinking "That's not how teens talk!" Well, take it from a teen. There are those out there who would rather die than be seen writing out "Lyke Omg I luv ur new shoez!".
Now, the acting. Easily the best part of the movie, and also the weakest link. Up and coming actor Anton Yelchin (Alpha Dog) plays the role perfectly, never missing a beat. He plays happy and carefree when he needs to, but the next second he's so smug you want to smack him. It's perfection in the form of a teen. And of course, we have Robert Downey Jr. (Zodiac, Iron Man) gracing the screen in the form of Principle Gardner. The chemistry between the two hits every note, and doesn't waver for a minute. But, where perfection is seen, flaws are even more defined. Next to the two leads, many of the actors filling in the smaller roles seem to almost be trying to match them. And it doesn't come off well, with over-acting filling many scenes. Still, do not let it perturb you, as the powerful presentations easily overshadow the lesser ones.
My only nitpick in the movie that really took anything out of the movie It was very obviously written by middle aged men trying to put themselves in the shoes of teens. In places it worked, but in others it came across as very forced and unrealistic. The school is very paint by the numbers. Let blue represent jocks, play out red as the airheaded cheerleaders and throw yellow in for the geeks, and you can paint a portrait of cliché.
All this being said, the movie has its up and downs. Depending on your mood, this movie could be for you. If you're looking for a smart movie with witty dialogue and good acting, and are willing to temporarily suspend everything you know of high school, this movies for you. Otherwise, for those more plot less, action oriented movie fans Well, there's always Jumper.
4 out of 5 stars
Words 599
Charlie Bartlett is the story of a young high school student with roots in royalty. Seemingly destined for a posh life, he constantly finds himself in situations involving expulsions due to fraud (hundreds of fake I.D.s given to schoolmates, for example). Soon, Charlie has been kicked out of nearly every private school within 100 miles of his house-mansion. With no alternatives left, Charlie quickly finds himself attending a public school with regular, everyday students. From here, he decides the only way to fit in is to become a lord of sorts, and begins handing out prescription drugs to those students truly in need with no way of getting them, while playing the role of psychiatrist. Of course, this bears consequences in the form of the principle And said principle's daughter.
An intelligent and witty movie, Charlie Bartlett is this generations Ferris Bueller. From the smooth, careless main character, to the parents being completely exaggerated in every manner, it all fits. The dialogue flows well and is witty throughout. Many teens will walk out thinking "That's not how teens talk!" Well, take it from a teen. There are those out there who would rather die than be seen writing out "Lyke Omg I luv ur new shoez!".
Now, the acting. Easily the best part of the movie, and also the weakest link. Up and coming actor Anton Yelchin (Alpha Dog) plays the role perfectly, never missing a beat. He plays happy and carefree when he needs to, but the next second he's so smug you want to smack him. It's perfection in the form of a teen. And of course, we have Robert Downey Jr. (Zodiac, Iron Man) gracing the screen in the form of Principle Gardner. The chemistry between the two hits every note, and doesn't waver for a minute. But, where perfection is seen, flaws are even more defined. Next to the two leads, many of the actors filling in the smaller roles seem to almost be trying to match them. And it doesn't come off well, with over-acting filling many scenes. Still, do not let it perturb you, as the powerful presentations easily overshadow the lesser ones.
My only nitpick in the movie that really took anything out of the movie It was very obviously written by middle aged men trying to put themselves in the shoes of teens. In places it worked, but in others it came across as very forced and unrealistic. The school is very paint by the numbers. Let blue represent jocks, play out red as the airheaded cheerleaders and throw yellow in for the geeks, and you can paint a portrait of cliché.
All this being said, the movie has its up and downs. Depending on your mood, this movie could be for you. If you're looking for a smart movie with witty dialogue and good acting, and are willing to temporarily suspend everything you know of high school, this movies for you. Otherwise, for those more plot less, action oriented movie fans Well, there's always Jumper.
4 out of 5 stars
Words 599
A Good Attempt
adamsmo1 March 2008
Charlie Bartlett was one of the first in a wave of movies I've been looking forward to this year, mostly based on the strength of their trailers.
But, like my company, I was somewhat let down. The strong points of the movie are Charlie's mother, Charlie's principal, and of course, Charlie. Anton Yelchin did a very good job making Charlie into a very strong persona, one that rivals the recent creation of Ellen Paige in Juno. Unfortunately, Yelchin decidedly falls short, seemingly due to what is a bad job of casting throughout the movie, with no chemistry between the vast majority of them. Charlie and his mother are the only two who have true palpable chemistry, with each of the moments they are together very enjoyable.
Then comes the rest of the cast.... One thing about this movie is there are just too many pointless characters who add nothing to the story. There are countless characters who were played by Degrassi actors and actresses, which alone is a bad mistake in casting. Then comes Charlie's girlfriend, Kat Dennings, who takes away from the movie much more than she adds. She plays through most of the movie straight-faced, using some of the most generic dialogue possible to imagine. The character is given some sort of tough style, but it's never reflected in any other part of any alleged personality of the character.
Besides the casting issues, the weakest part of this movie is the script. While Charlie's mother and Charlie himself have distinguishable dialogue from everyone else, everything almost everyone else says could be said by anyone, anywhere, without a shred of a personality reflected in them.
Other than the noticeable issues I came across, I still managed to enjoy the film. It had its issues, but the competent directing managed to pull it together into something that I think most can enjoy, at least to an extent.
But, like my company, I was somewhat let down. The strong points of the movie are Charlie's mother, Charlie's principal, and of course, Charlie. Anton Yelchin did a very good job making Charlie into a very strong persona, one that rivals the recent creation of Ellen Paige in Juno. Unfortunately, Yelchin decidedly falls short, seemingly due to what is a bad job of casting throughout the movie, with no chemistry between the vast majority of them. Charlie and his mother are the only two who have true palpable chemistry, with each of the moments they are together very enjoyable.
Then comes the rest of the cast.... One thing about this movie is there are just too many pointless characters who add nothing to the story. There are countless characters who were played by Degrassi actors and actresses, which alone is a bad mistake in casting. Then comes Charlie's girlfriend, Kat Dennings, who takes away from the movie much more than she adds. She plays through most of the movie straight-faced, using some of the most generic dialogue possible to imagine. The character is given some sort of tough style, but it's never reflected in any other part of any alleged personality of the character.
Besides the casting issues, the weakest part of this movie is the script. While Charlie's mother and Charlie himself have distinguishable dialogue from everyone else, everything almost everyone else says could be said by anyone, anywhere, without a shred of a personality reflected in them.
Other than the noticeable issues I came across, I still managed to enjoy the film. It had its issues, but the competent directing managed to pull it together into something that I think most can enjoy, at least to an extent.
EXTREMELY ENTERTAINING
anitalansing-40-58191518 March 2020
This is one of the most near-perfect movies that I have watched in a very long time. I was completely enthralled with the storyline, the actors, and the movie itself. The movie had it all, comedy, drama, and guidance on the angsts of growing up and being a teen. I could not have asked for a more complete movie. Very good, very, very good.
Rare Heart
hardcoresocrates30 June 2007
If no studio wants to invest in your film, it's because they know that unless all the stars align with your project, they're not going to make money. Well, the filmmakers here -- from the producers to the PA's -- obviously labored enough to force those stars into line, and make a terrific film that is bound to bring box office returns.
As a filmmaker watching this film, what confused me at first was how, as the story begins, there seems to be no structure, but it still made me hang on every word. Like any good film, that structure remained invisible throughout the whole film; it was only in retrospect that I could see how well this journey was laid out for us to effortlessly enjoy ourselves with realistic comedy, absurdist comedy, genuine romance, genuine father/daughter struggles and a variety of questions we should be all be asking ourselves. No filmmaker-knows-all solutions here.
This has an R rating, because the MPAA is afraid that kids can't handle talk about teenage Ritalin use. Either we all embrace the neo-comic book code era http://historymatters.gmu.edu/d/6543/, or we have to convince the industry to ditch this mindless censorship club that attempts to protect our children from the new perspectives that they need more than ever.
Tell them what you think at www.mpaa.org/AboutUsContactUs.asp
As a filmmaker watching this film, what confused me at first was how, as the story begins, there seems to be no structure, but it still made me hang on every word. Like any good film, that structure remained invisible throughout the whole film; it was only in retrospect that I could see how well this journey was laid out for us to effortlessly enjoy ourselves with realistic comedy, absurdist comedy, genuine romance, genuine father/daughter struggles and a variety of questions we should be all be asking ourselves. No filmmaker-knows-all solutions here.
This has an R rating, because the MPAA is afraid that kids can't handle talk about teenage Ritalin use. Either we all embrace the neo-comic book code era http://historymatters.gmu.edu/d/6543/, or we have to convince the industry to ditch this mindless censorship club that attempts to protect our children from the new perspectives that they need more than ever.
Tell them what you think at www.mpaa.org/AboutUsContactUs.asp
Fun, owes a lot to Pump Up the Volume, with one huge flaw
whatch-1793129 October 2020
Downey Jr and Yelchin create surprisingly relatable and likable characters, pretty well free of cliches.
It definitely channels Pump Up the Volume. However, it's still quite different. The satire about psych drugs and it's spot on. Give kids these meds and of course they'll gleefully but sell and trade.
But the final act is so discordant to what came before. The loopy doopy play the school puts on, complete with musical numbers, is one of the very things that makes kids crazy to begin with.
It definitely channels Pump Up the Volume. However, it's still quite different. The satire about psych drugs and it's spot on. Give kids these meds and of course they'll gleefully but sell and trade.
But the final act is so discordant to what came before. The loopy doopy play the school puts on, complete with musical numbers, is one of the very things that makes kids crazy to begin with.
flawed but enjoyable teen comedy
Buddy-5118 February 2009
Charlie Bartlett is a precocious and enterprising prep school reject who will do just about anything it takes to be popular. This includes sitting in the stall of the boys' restroom at the public school he now attends, dispensing medical and psychiatric advice - along with an assortment of prescription drugs he's wrangled out of his therapist - to an appreciative (and appreciatively doped-up) student body. The real trouble begins when Charlie eventually comes under the radar of the school's paranoid (but actually kind of cool) principal, both for his illegal activities in the john and for the romantic interest he's taken in the man's own daughter, who also happens to be a student at the school.
Written by Gustin Nash and directed by Jon Poll, "Charlie Bartlett" is a cut above the average teen comedy thanks to generally sophisticated writing, winning performances by Anton Yelchin, Robert Downey, Jr., Hope Davis and Kat Dennings and the satirical swipe it takes at a culture that subscribes to the notion that a pharmaceutical a day will keep the blues away. The movie also comes replete with a couple of nice, comfy moral lessons to make us all feel better about ourselves in the end - namely, that we shouldn't compromise our integrity to achieve popularity, and that we need to learn to channel our creativity in a more "positive" direction if we hope to make anything of ourselves in this life.
In short, "Charlie Bartlett" is a "daring" comedy that doesn't really dare very much when all is said and done. Yet, while the movie does lose much of its edge in the second half - succumbing to too many "feel good" comedy clichés and only-in-the-movies moments - it still manages to leave us smiling in the end.
Written by Gustin Nash and directed by Jon Poll, "Charlie Bartlett" is a cut above the average teen comedy thanks to generally sophisticated writing, winning performances by Anton Yelchin, Robert Downey, Jr., Hope Davis and Kat Dennings and the satirical swipe it takes at a culture that subscribes to the notion that a pharmaceutical a day will keep the blues away. The movie also comes replete with a couple of nice, comfy moral lessons to make us all feel better about ourselves in the end - namely, that we shouldn't compromise our integrity to achieve popularity, and that we need to learn to channel our creativity in a more "positive" direction if we hope to make anything of ourselves in this life.
In short, "Charlie Bartlett" is a "daring" comedy that doesn't really dare very much when all is said and done. Yet, while the movie does lose much of its edge in the second half - succumbing to too many "feel good" comedy clichés and only-in-the-movies moments - it still manages to leave us smiling in the end.
Good Movie!!
papanloveu16 August 2021
Overall, better then I had expected
cjdesign-inc23 July 2008
If there is is one thing that has happened over the past year or so, it is my growing distrust of the 'indie' film. After seeing the trailer for Charlie Bartlet, I could not expect anything better from this movie. It looked like the same old awkward teen movie like Running With Scissors, Thumbsucker, or Igby Goes Down with some unknowns, and one or two Hollywood legends taking the roll for the 'artistic value.'
Thankfully, I was mistaken.
The movie follows a well-off teen, Charlie Bartlet (Anton Yelchin), who's shinning academic career is constantly marred by the lengths he will go to to be popular, leaving him with nothing more than an expulsion from every Private Academy he's gone to. Deciding to try public school for th first time, Bartlet realizes it is a whole new world and he's at the bottom. After a brief run-in with Ritalin, Bartlet strikes up a deal with the school bully and, using the extensive list of private therapists at his family's disposal who are more than happy to prescribe medications as a solution to any problem, quickly sets up shop as the student-body therapist and pharmacy.
The situation is complicated when Bartlet falls for Susan (Kat Dennings), the daughter of Principal Gardner (Robert Downey, Jr.), whose past issues and horrible misfortune of being promoted to School Principal from his beloved roll as History teacher have left him somewhat cynical, and suspicious of Charlie.
The only negative to this movie is that it's runtime of 97 minutes far exceeds it's 60 minute plot and will sometimes feel as though it drags on. But the clashing between Bartlet and Gardner has a chemistry (the two actors compliment each other very well in both style and character) that makes it worth the slow points.
Overall, I would highly recommend this movie. It may not be fast-paced, and does lack any strong conflict, but overall it is a very enjoyable comedy that really goes to show that no matter what, everyone just wants to be liked and accepted.
Thankfully, I was mistaken.
The movie follows a well-off teen, Charlie Bartlet (Anton Yelchin), who's shinning academic career is constantly marred by the lengths he will go to to be popular, leaving him with nothing more than an expulsion from every Private Academy he's gone to. Deciding to try public school for th first time, Bartlet realizes it is a whole new world and he's at the bottom. After a brief run-in with Ritalin, Bartlet strikes up a deal with the school bully and, using the extensive list of private therapists at his family's disposal who are more than happy to prescribe medications as a solution to any problem, quickly sets up shop as the student-body therapist and pharmacy.
The situation is complicated when Bartlet falls for Susan (Kat Dennings), the daughter of Principal Gardner (Robert Downey, Jr.), whose past issues and horrible misfortune of being promoted to School Principal from his beloved roll as History teacher have left him somewhat cynical, and suspicious of Charlie.
The only negative to this movie is that it's runtime of 97 minutes far exceeds it's 60 minute plot and will sometimes feel as though it drags on. But the clashing between Bartlet and Gardner has a chemistry (the two actors compliment each other very well in both style and character) that makes it worth the slow points.
Overall, I would highly recommend this movie. It may not be fast-paced, and does lack any strong conflict, but overall it is a very enjoyable comedy that really goes to show that no matter what, everyone just wants to be liked and accepted.
A Nutshell Review: Charlie Bartlett
DICK STEEL29 March 2008
You have Ferris Bueller, and Van Wilder, and now we have Charlie Bartlett (Anton Yelchin). But unlike the other two high school dudes with natural chemistry, Bartlett got to work hard at it, stemmed from his personal issues which manifest itself as a want to get himself catapulted to the top of the popularity charts. Being from a rich household, he finds himself like a fish out of water in a public school after being thrown out of just about every private school out there for his shenanigans.
And of course, things don't get any better after a disastrous day at school with the school bully, and giving the first wrong impressions to Principal Gardner (Robert Downey Jr), whom he has to convince later when Bartlett begins to develop affections for Gardner's daughter and fellow schoolmate Susan (Kat Dennings). So beings a power struggle of sorts within the school compound, and for the girl both care about.
Some have billed Charlie Bartlett as a Juno follow up, but I would like to beg to differ. Sure, they're both dealing with high school kids who fast talks, but when compared to Juno, Charlie Bartlett would probably get his butt kicked real hard. Not to say that Charlie Bartlett is a bad film, but Juno offered a lot more pizazz, attitude and charm that Bartlett seemed to be lacking. However, there are still enjoyable moments with Bartlett that most school kids who aim to be Mr or Ms Popular, would probably identify with.
And the scenes where Charlie becomes Agony Uncle and sets up shop dispensing useful advice, as well as controlled drugs, take the cake in the movie, as he discovers his niche market, and milked them for all it's worth. Anton Yelchin has this very sly demeanour and offers much of a devilish attitude from beneath that wimpy surface, though I can't really say that as Charlie Bartlett it will be his defining role. I look forward to his involvement as Chekov in JJ Abrams' upcoming reboot of the Star Trek movie though.
The soundtrack is unlikely to be memorable (for a teen movie! The Horror!) though one can take consolation with Hope Davis' portrayal as Charlie's neurotic mother Marilyn, which did seem like a distant cousin to Annette Benning's role in Running With Scissors. And Robert Downey Jr with a bottle in hand did seem like reliving his past on screen, and I'd bet his Tony Stark in Iron Man, would also seem like a stroll down memory lane for him too. The best parts of the story for his Principal Gardner of course involves his one to one challenges with Bartlett, as do any school principal with their school's #1 rascal, so there's nothing new though to offer there.
I had expected a lot from Charlie Bartlett, and we all know what expectations can do, especially when the movie doesn't seem to hit the mark set. Enjoyable, but not the greatest we've seen in the shenanigans department.
And of course, things don't get any better after a disastrous day at school with the school bully, and giving the first wrong impressions to Principal Gardner (Robert Downey Jr), whom he has to convince later when Bartlett begins to develop affections for Gardner's daughter and fellow schoolmate Susan (Kat Dennings). So beings a power struggle of sorts within the school compound, and for the girl both care about.
Some have billed Charlie Bartlett as a Juno follow up, but I would like to beg to differ. Sure, they're both dealing with high school kids who fast talks, but when compared to Juno, Charlie Bartlett would probably get his butt kicked real hard. Not to say that Charlie Bartlett is a bad film, but Juno offered a lot more pizazz, attitude and charm that Bartlett seemed to be lacking. However, there are still enjoyable moments with Bartlett that most school kids who aim to be Mr or Ms Popular, would probably identify with.
And the scenes where Charlie becomes Agony Uncle and sets up shop dispensing useful advice, as well as controlled drugs, take the cake in the movie, as he discovers his niche market, and milked them for all it's worth. Anton Yelchin has this very sly demeanour and offers much of a devilish attitude from beneath that wimpy surface, though I can't really say that as Charlie Bartlett it will be his defining role. I look forward to his involvement as Chekov in JJ Abrams' upcoming reboot of the Star Trek movie though.
The soundtrack is unlikely to be memorable (for a teen movie! The Horror!) though one can take consolation with Hope Davis' portrayal as Charlie's neurotic mother Marilyn, which did seem like a distant cousin to Annette Benning's role in Running With Scissors. And Robert Downey Jr with a bottle in hand did seem like reliving his past on screen, and I'd bet his Tony Stark in Iron Man, would also seem like a stroll down memory lane for him too. The best parts of the story for his Principal Gardner of course involves his one to one challenges with Bartlett, as do any school principal with their school's #1 rascal, so there's nothing new though to offer there.
I had expected a lot from Charlie Bartlett, and we all know what expectations can do, especially when the movie doesn't seem to hit the mark set. Enjoyable, but not the greatest we've seen in the shenanigans department.
One of the best teen comedies of this generation
Shattered_Wake15 June 2009
'Charlie Bartlett,' the story of a wealthy teen who bounces from posh private school to normal public school, is one that should go down as a requisite for all high school students to view.
Along with films like Ferris Bueller, Breakfast Club, Fast Times, and Dazed & Confused, 'Charlie Bartlett' shows a great (though sometimes exaggerated) view of high school life and the struggles that come with it.
Great performances by the lead ensemble and a fantastic job by first time director Jon Poll and first time writer Gustin Nash help to make this the best high school film of the decade.
9/10.
Along with films like Ferris Bueller, Breakfast Club, Fast Times, and Dazed & Confused, 'Charlie Bartlett' shows a great (though sometimes exaggerated) view of high school life and the struggles that come with it.
Great performances by the lead ensemble and a fantastic job by first time director Jon Poll and first time writer Gustin Nash help to make this the best high school film of the decade.
9/10.
Sorry, not a fan of Charlie Bartlett
SnoopyStyle18 August 2013
Charlie Bartlett (Anton Yelchin) is a smart rich kid who is new to public school. He's been kicked out of every private school. His father is in prison. He gets picked on but feels above it all. He doesn't fit in until he starts selling his prescriptions to his fellow students. He starts diagnosing them as a self-proclaimed doctor. His mother (Hope Davis) is a mess. Susan (Kat Dennings) is principal Nathan Gardner (Robert Downey Jr.)'s daughter.
I'm not usually a fan of Anton Yelchin. He always has a bit of a smirk. That's what comes across with this Charlie Bartlett. He's a bit smug and it's not appealing. He feels above everybody else. If you do it like Ferris Bueller, it's fun. This is not that. I suppose it's a smirky indie. It has its moments. It's nothing hilarious but I did smirk once or twice.
I'm not usually a fan of Anton Yelchin. He always has a bit of a smirk. That's what comes across with this Charlie Bartlett. He's a bit smug and it's not appealing. He feels above everybody else. If you do it like Ferris Bueller, it's fun. This is not that. I suppose it's a smirky indie. It has its moments. It's nothing hilarious but I did smirk once or twice.
Teen comedy or a moral tale for older people too?
jhsteel2 May 2009
I began watching this thinking "I'm about 30 years too old to appreciate this" because it seemed to be pitched at a teenage audience, but after a while I was taken by the unfolding events and drawn in to the believable human story underneath it all. The great performances of Robert Downey Jr and Anton Yelchin convinced me that the Principal of a school and a troubled student could end up helping each other and overcome the predictable high school conventions. It was surprising and satisfying, and the outcomes for many of the characters were positive in a not-unbelievable way. I understand why some people would see the likeness to Rushmore, but for me that was a uniquely brilliant Wes Anderson creation that can't be touched by films with apparently similar plots. Charlie Bartlett is worth seeing for its own sake and it is a rewarding experience. Anyone who has been a teenager should appreciate it and fans of Robert Downey Jr will also get the bonus of his character opening up about a history of drug abuse that seems to come from the heart of this wonderful actor.
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