+++ School of Rock +++ Movie: School of Rock Cast: Jack Black, Joan Cusack, Sarah Silverman, Mike White, Joey Gaydes Rating: 4 of 5 Reviewer: Julie Wagoner Remember the time in English class when you had to write an essay on your ideal class? Well, if you're a music fan, you probably wrote the essay about a class focusing primarily on Rock 'N' Roll. Here's what your ideal schedule would be: Monday: Practice your instrument (preferably guitar/drums/keyboard) or rehearse your singing. Tuesday: Study the history of Rock 'N' Roll. Wednesday: Work on stage choreography. Thursday: Sharpen up songwriting. Finalize performance. Friday: Performance. Does it sound similar to what you wrote in your essay? Most of you will agree it is. That essay topic could've been the inspiration for School of Rock. At the beginning of the movie, Dewey Finn ( Jack Black) is fired from his unsuccessful band after a horrendous performance. When he returns home, his roomate, Ned Schneebly ( Mike White ) is forced by his girlfriend ( Sarah Silverman ) to threaten Dewey to pay up the rent or get out. Money comes hard for Rock 'N' Roll performers such as Dewey so he goes on a search to find a new band to perform with him at the Battle of the Bands competition. Unfortunately, no one is interested. The next day, Dewey receives a phone call from Horrace Green Elementary School requesting Ned to substitute for $650 a week for several weeks. Dewey takes on Ned's identity and accepts the offer. Once he arrives, he dismisses the class for recess for the entire day while he sleeps at the teacher's desk. Then, one of the girls confronts Dewey saying she wants to learn something. Dewey gives a realistic view on life right before the teachers interupts to notify Dewey of the children's music lesson. While the children practice their music, Dewey spies on the music class. He finds there is much potential to be used in the students. He is on top of the world again when he comes up with a plan to take these kids to compete in battle of the bands. After returning from their lesson, the kids are asked to perform on certain instruments for him. But some kids aren't as musically inclined to be musicians. So, Dewey assigns the extra students positions including a manager, costumer, roadies, security, technicians, and back-up singers. The class must learn the songs from each other and work together toward the final performance while keeping the project confidential. There are a few bumps in the road to success, but the project goes down in flames on meet the teacher night. Will the band continue to rock on or break up? Go see it to find out. The movie is quite predictable; however, the humor and heart warming dedication to music are the two elements that made this movie successful. If you are all about the music and having fun, you will enjoy this movie and find yourself tapping your foot or humming along to the classic hits that pop up throughout the movie. Click here for the Official Movie website Click here to read other reviews

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