August 2021: Back to School
These films make going back to school sound a lot more fun.
Kirk’s Rec
Afterschool (2008)
Want to watch a depraved high school movie with Ezra Miller that’s not We Need to Talk About Kevin? Feel-bad extraordinaire Antonio Campos’ private school drama is a misunderstood movie that probably rings more true now than it did when it came out in 2008. Ruin your night material for sure!
Chris’ Rec
Accepted (2006)
Intelligence is a subjective construct, one that our education system has co-opted based on narrow criteria originating from Anglo-European tradition. Ergo, college isn’t just for smart kids; it’s for kids that know how to get into college (and have the resources to do it). I love the way Accepted exposes the mythology of academia and gets to the root of what education should be: what interests you, and how can you learn more about it? Plus, I think Justin Long is an underrated actor who somehow never broke into Hollywood’s A-List (or B-List). Also, there’s a lot of shit jokes.
Stephanie’s Rec
Grease (1978)
John Travolta as a hunky greaser and ONJ as the preppy new girl - what’s not to love?? This movie is a right of passage at middle school sleepovers and gave us “Summer Nights”, “You’re the One That I Want”, and so many more iconic hits.
Dylan’s Rec
10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
One of our finest Shakespeare adaptations gave us so much: Julia Stiles in full bloom as the quasi-titular shrew needing to be tamed, Alison Janey in a cameo as a horny guidance counselor, and perhaps its greatest gift, the American acting debut of the one and only Heath Ledger. I LOVE YOU BABY AND IF IT'S QUITE ALRIGHT I NEED YOU BABY.
Jesse’s Rec
School of Rock (2003)
I was 13 when School of Rock came out on September 24, 2003 and probably saw it 3 more times before turning 14 two weeks later. While squarely within the target demographic when it was released, I’ve always been pleasantly surprised at how School of Rock has retained both cultural and emotional intelligence as it’s aged. Jack Black has grown into perhaps the most lovable creative force in Hollywood, and if I had a vote would elect him mayor of Tinseltown over Jeff Goldblum in a heartbeat. Scenes from the movie have also continually popped up on Twitter, such as this post highlighting a body positive monologue that garnered more than 450k likes in April.
The movie offers both hopeful and cynical takes on how school can function as a crucible for its pupils, with bullies, inept administrators, and egotistical parents facing off against impassioned teachers, talented students, and the transformative power of community. It’s a movie that does an abundance of things well, yet at the end of the day still is one we best remember for the unmatched energy brought to the center of its cinematic universe by Jack Black.