#TIFF19: “BAD EDUCATION”

Review by David Baldwin for Mr. Will Wong

The Roslyn School District in Long Island has become substantially more prestigious due to the tireless work of Superintendent Frank Tassone (Hugh Jackman) and his team. But everything starts falling apart when it is discovered that his Assistant Superintendent Pam Gluckin (Oscar-winner Allison Janney) has been embezzling money from the school. And as one student journalist begins digging deeper, it becomes clear that Frank may be involved as well.

Bad Education is equal parts Comedy and Tragedy, made all the more eye-opening by it being inspired by a true story. In only his second Feature, Director Cory Finley has proven himself a terrific young talent with a keen eye for detail and structure. While I would have preferred a less meticulous pace, it allows Finley the opportunity to really explore all of the nuances of Mike Makowsky’s spectacular Script. It is impeccably designed, brilliantly connected and easily one of the strongest at this year’s festival. The Script feels especially authentic given that Makowsky was a student at the school during the real-life timeline of the Film. While the performances are strong across the board, Jackman is the clear standout with his magnificently layered and weathered performance. We all love him as Wolverine, but this may just be his finest hour.

BAD EDUCATION screens during TIFF at the following times:

Sunday September 8, 6:15pm @ Princess of Wales [World Premiere]
Monday September 9, 3:00pm @ Princess of Wales
Thursday September 12, 9:00pm @ Scotiabank Theatre
Friday September 13, 7:00pm @ Scotiabank Theatre
Saturday September 14, 1:00pm @ Winter Garden Theatre