This is my 2nd time watching this film. I haven't seen this film since freshman year in high school (that is 8 years ago)! Initially, I gave this 4 stars - I didn't find it great, just enjoyable. After a rewatch, this deserves 5 stars and actually, I believe this is a masterpiece.

It is certainly an unusual choice for Richard Linklater to direct this film. But he did a great job bringing in the energy and creating an entertaining film. The screenplay may seem to be pretty unserious, however, it is quite factually true. The introduction of the film is fantastic as we get to see the failure of Dewey and his band. Earning income for a generally despised band is actually tough. With a slight save, he decides to pursue the path of being a fake substitute.

There is a brilliant transformation for Dewey and the children towards the end of the film. Dewey is presented as a lazy person, but his passion of teaching rock after noticing the talent of the children ignites his life. The children changed themselves and felt the sense of joy (and maybe a bit more adult) from the learning experience. Particularly, Lawrence has a good arc. As a person who plays the piano, music is a boost for creative juice and expressing emotions. It clearly shows. Even the parents and the school principal at the end didn't realise that the children all have talents, despite the controversy of rock music.

It ultimately doesn't matter if they win the competition - it is the fanfare and encouragement that strives forward. Now, that is a reflection of many people - despite not winning or maybe not even won awards, they are still remembered for their achievements (think about Stanley Kubrick, Martin Scorsese, George Lucas etc).

This idea may seem far-fetched, but I had an incredibly similar experience. I had a teacher who teaches drama. Pretty much the whole year was spent on creating one play, which involved a massive amount of improvisation and collaboration. Yes, it did spark outrage with parents (including mine!), but as I am reflecting back, it was the best time of my school life and it made me realise who I am.

Jack Black is born to play this role. In fact, Mike White, the screenwriter of the film, wrote this movie for Jack Black. He is injected with a plethora of energy to command over the whole runtime. Joan Allen did a marvellous job. Sarah Silverman is annoying, but it fits her character so well! The children actors are all so splendid.

The editing is top-notch. It has got to be one of the fastest paced films i have ever seen. There is not a single drag and boring moment for the whole length. The selection of music is awesome. The big bonus is including a Led Zeppelin music! The sound design is tremendous.

A film I initially didn't appreciate... until now. My memories made me fall in love with this film. If you didn't like it on your first watch, I highly recommend trying another go. If you haven't seen this film, I very highly recommend it!

For more of my other modern film reviews, click HERE.