Down and out rock star Dewey Finn gets fired from his band and he faces a mountain of debts and depression. He takes a job as a 4th grade substitute teacher at an uptight private school where his attitude and hijinx have a powerful effect on his students. He also meets Zack a 10-year-old guitar prodigy who could help Dewey win a battle of the bands competition which would solve his financial problems and put him back in the spotlight.
Review
Greetings again from the darkness. With so few good comedies these days it was pure joy to laugh out loud a few times during this Jack Black showcase. Is he over the top Absolutely. Is his humor and delivery similar to the great John Belushi Yes down to the arching eyebrows. And I say SO WHAT Jack Black is hilarious in this movie and director Richard Linklater (the underappreciated gem "Dazed and Confused") uses his spoton observations of Rock music and school days to deliver a wonderful film going experience. Writer Mike White ("The Good Girl") also plays Blacks wimpy friend and former bandmate. Although his acting is fine it is Whites writing that will make him rich in Hollywood. The kids in the band are wonderfully cast and appear to be very talented musically as well. Special recognition to Joan Cusack who just nails the role of the uptight private school principal who is just itching to be unleashed. I would have enjoyed a bit more of the Rock History tossed in for the sake of todays youngsters but the tributes to Pete Townsend Jimi Hendrix Zeppelin and the Ramones are much appreciated. Look for Nikki Katt in a brief role but mostly just sit back and enjoy a pure comedy that truly ROCKS!!