One of the most beloved family films of the modern era is set to light up television screens across the UK this evening. The electrifying musical comedy School of Rock, starring the irrepressible Jack Black, will be broadcast on ITV2 tonight (Saturday, 2nd January) at 6.45pm.
From Box Office Smash to Stone-Cold Classic
Originally released in 2003, Richard Linklater's film was a surprise critical and commercial hit. It went on to earn nearly four times its production budget, securing its place as the highest-grossing music-themed comedy for over a decade until 2015. The film features Jack Black in a career-defining role as Dewey Finn, a down-on-his-luck rock guitarist who gets fired from his band.
In a desperate bid to pay his rent, Dewey impersonates a substitute teacher at a prestigious preparatory school. He soon discovers the latent musical talent in his young students and forms a band to compete in a local Battle of the Bands, aiming to win both revenge on his old bandmates and the prize money.
An Enduring Critical and Audience Darling
The film's legacy is cemented by its outstanding reviews. It holds an impressive 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with the critics' consensus praising Black's "exuberant, gleeful performance." The late, great Roger Ebert championed the movie, noting it proved a family film could be "alive and well acted and smart and perceptive and funny - and that rocks."
Audiences have kept the film's spirit alive for over two decades. It frequently appears on 'best of' lists, including a recent ranking by Looper as the 41st best PG-13 movie of all time. Fans continue to celebrate its message, with one viewer calling it "an electrifying musical masterpiece" and another praising its "pure joy and constant smiling."
The Legacy Beyond the Screen
While a direct film sequel never materialised, the property's success spawned other ventures. School of Rock inspired a hit stage musical and a television series that ran for three seasons, proving the story's timeless appeal. The film also boasts a stellar supporting cast, including Joan Cusack and Sarah Silverman, and features early performances from future stars like Miranda Cosgrove of iCarly fame.
At its heart, the film is celebrated for its powerful themes. It champions creativity, self-expression, and the transformative power of music, delivering a feel-good experience that resonates with viewers of all ages. Don't miss the chance to revisit this toe-tapping, empowering classic on ITV2 tonight.
