DVD Review: School of Rock

School of Rock, The (2003)
Directed by Richard Linklater
Starring Jack Black, Adam Pascal, Mike White, Joan Cusack and Sara Silverman
MPAA: PG-13
Grade: B+ Review by Scott Standish

My review of Richard Linklater's film Waking Life generated the most e-mail (most of it negative) in site history. Those who were upset over my review of Waking Life should finally be happy with this one: I love School of Rock.

The premise to School of Rock is simple: Jack Black is a wanna-be rock star that hasn't made it yet. He also hasn't been able to come up with with half of the rent money, so his roommate (Mike White) gives him the ultimatumm: find a job or get out. When a private school mistakes him for a substitute teacher, he grabs the cushy job and decides to teach the kids "how to rock". He gives the kids guitars, drums and keyboards and teaches Classic Rock 101. We're talking Ramones, Van Halen, AC/DC, etc. The kids learn a little bit about the healing powers of rebellion, and he learns a little bit about responsibility.

Linklater is a pro at silly pop comedies (Dazed & Confused, Slacker) and I would to see him do more films like this. In this time in the US, we certainly can use a little more laughter, so keep them coming!

Reportedly, the idea for this film came to writer Mike White when Jack Black moved in next door. Black loved to blast his classic rock and run through the halls naked. Another trivia tidbit: High Fidelity director Stephen Frears was reportedly the first choice to direct.

Buy School of Rock on DVD