Aarcflick

 A huge hit in Aotearoa New Zealand, this film follows a teacher who transforms an elite private school with music, masterfully performed by Anapela Polataivao. Ah, yes: the inspirational high school movie! This formula is classic, but it remains relevant: an innovative teacher deeply inspires his students while restoring something broken within. These narratives view education as a "school of life" in which everyone, regardless of age or circumstance, is always in a state of learning and growth. The teacher's unconventional methods are inevitably challenged; various triumphs and tragedies arise. And in musical-themed productions, such as the Aotearoa New Zealand drama Tinā, the momentum builds toward a poignant final performance. Director: Miki Magasiva Writers: Miki Magasiva, Mario Gaoa Stars: Anapela Polataivao, Antonia Robinson, Beulah Koale Tonally, Miki Magasiva's film is less a School of Rock than Mr. Holland's Opus: stylistically conventional, and less int...