Simply one of the finest movies made.

Rating: 9/10 (13 March 2007)

Once in a generation a film comes along that reminds us about that special person who makes such an impact on our lives, and the lives of so many others, while remaining unaware of the effect that they have had. In the 1930's it was "Goodbye Mr. Chips." In the 1940's is was "Good Morning Miss Dove." And now comes "Mr. Holland's Opus." These three films have one thing in common. They cover a lifetime of teaching and the effect it has on the teacher as well as the students they have come into contact with.
Richard Dreyfus creates a bravura performance as Glenn Holland, and should have won the best actor Oscar for his role, even as Robet Donat did in "Goodbye Mr. Chips." This film was special to me for two reasons. I had a chorus teacher in high school had affected me in such a way as Mr. Holland did his students. And years later I had the opportunity to work with and teach Drama to young people from age six up. I have seen this story from both sides, and it still affects me so very much.
My only argument with the film is in the final scene. If the Governor was so dedicated to Mr. Holland why did she not do something about retaining the music program in that school? It is a small plot point, but I was curious. All in all though this is a wonderful film, and should be in everyone's film library. It earns two thumbs up from me.