Sometimes a Movie Is Written For a Single Scene

Rating: 8/10 (4 July 2019)

"School of Rock" is a vehicle to display Jack Black's immense talent as a comedian and musician.
The Good. Where do I begin. This film is well-paced, well-acted (especially by some of the kid actors), well-written, with an incredibly enjoyable story led by our hero Dewey (Black). Truthfully, Jack Black steals the show. I understand it's his movie, but there is no one else who could've done this role and film and made it into such a well-loved comedy. Black shines in every moment he's on screen whether its Dewey the slacker, Dewey the fake teacher, Dewey the ACTUAL teacher, or Dewey the Rock God. This movie encapsulates everything rock music is about through a deep understanding via the main star and writers.
The Bad. I don't have much to say that's wrong with this film to be honest. Perhaps some of the kid actors don't inspire much awe, but truth is, most of them really do. Two child actors that especially stand out are Miranda Cosgrove as Summer, the over-achieving golden child, and Kevin Alexander Clark as Freddy (Fancy Pants) who actually gets some of the best lines and laughs in the movie despite his limited screen time.
The Fantastic. The Rock Music. A story about teaching a new generation about the musical history that came before them is a greatly appreciated film for people to see. As mentioned earlier, this film flows through Black's performance as any other actor would've been an act. Black gives a genuine love for rock music that is evidently clear. But ultimately, the most important scene of this movie is the climax where the School of Rock give their performance at the Battle of the Bands...can't say much more about it, you should see it if you haven't. It's as good as any live rock concert you've been to.
Great music. Great laughs. Great performances. And great rock appreciation.
8/10
I really don't have much to say that's wrong with this movie. On a technical level it's pretty flawless. I will say its not as funny as some other comedies, and 90 percent of the laughs come from Jack Black, but I don't think nonstop laughs from beginning to end was its goal. And that's okay. It works. I just can't give it a 10 for those comedies that are truly special, but this is a perfectly fine movie I'd recommend to anyone. I like to rate movies based on how well they achieve what they're trying to achieve rather than what I want a film to be.