**** Required for All Teachers

Rating: 10/10 (8 January 2006)

Finally, a realistic picture about teaching.
Richard Dreyfuss is memorable as a new teacher in Mr. Holland's Opus.
He begins a 30 year career as a music teacher in a large high school. He comes across his principal, Mrs. Jacobs, who demands a month of lesson plans in advance on her desk in the morning. Any teacher can understand what that is. Then, there is an assistant principal, devilishly played by, William H. Macy, who takes an instant dislike to Mr. Holland. He can't wait to"rat" him out to Mrs. Jacobs.
Seeing that traditional teaching methods are not working, Holland tries unorthodox ways which of course riles Macy.
The irony that a music teacher would have a child who is deaf. Beethoven could best understand that frustration.
When Mrs. Jacobs informs Holland of her retirement, she says something to him that all teachers would love to hear: "You were my favorite teacher." Of course, Macy becomes the principal and as the years pass,the two still have a contentious relationship, as their hair turns gray.
Holland works on that forever opus and is almost ready to give everything up and run away with a student until common sense prevails.
After 30 years, there are budget cuts and the Music Department will be eliminated. Sounds familiar in today's climate?
Mr. Holland will be forced into retirement but not before a rousing tribute by his present and former pupils. One very special student appears and it's a delight to see how far she has come.
Richard Dreyfuss, in a memorable Oscar nominated performance, is magnificent. He conveys the ideals of a teacher and what we have to go through.
This is truly a welcomed film for its reality and emotions shown.