Chalk (PG-13)

Mockumentary shines light on high school teachers.

(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)

Common Sense rates it
3
Seen the movie? Review it
7264_orig.jpg
Movie details
  • Studio: Someday Soon Productions, Someday Soon Productions
  • Directed By: Mike Akel
  • Cast: Troy Schremmer, Shannon Haragan, Janelle Schremmer
  • Running Time: 84 minutes
  • Release Date: 09/06/2007
  • Video/DVD Release Date: 09/25/2007
  • Genre: Comedy
  • MPAA Rating: PG-13
  • MPAA Explanation: some language.

Parents need to know

Parents need to know that this indie film feels much more like a documentary than a typical high school comedy. Teens may find its sophisticated, character-driven humor funny -- and reflective of their actual school experience -- but younger kids probably won't be interested in the staff's trials and traumas. There's some discussion of sexual orientation, specifically with regard to P.E. teachers. The rare cursing (including "f--k") comes from the students, not the teachers. One teacher is shown smoking; others go out for drinks after work. It's worth noting that there's a lot of jerky handheld camera work, which could be difficult for those who are sensitive to the abrupt movements.

Families can talk about how Harrison High is similar to and different from their own experience. How realistic are the teachers and the students? How can you tell that this is a fake documentary, rather than a real one? What tools did the filmmakers use to make this feel like a true story? What do you think a real documentary about an average high school would be like? Does the movie successfully explain why so many teachers leave the classroom after such a short time? If you were Mr. Lowery, would you come back, and, if so, what would you do differently?

Message

Social Behavior:

High school students and faculty are mostly treated with respect; racially sensitive portrayal of multi-ethnic classrooms; uses humor to illustrate staff insecurity and weaknesses, but doesn't make fun of kids.

Consumerism:

Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco:

One teacher is shown smoking; teachers drink in a bar after work on one occasion.

Violence

Some inconsequential tussling between high school students (teacher has to break up a fight).

Sex

Discussion of P.E. teacher's sexual orientation.

Language

Infrequent, but words include "f--k," "bulls--t," and "ass."

Common Sense says

What's the story?

Reviewed by Renee Schonfeld

Fascinated by the statistic that 50% of new teachers leave the field within the first three years, teachers Mike Akel and co-writer Chris Maas created this "mockumentary" about why it happens. It's the first day of school at Harrison High. Teachers and other staffers are idealistic, purposeful, and enthusiastic (despite a few cases of nerves and some of outright terror). They put on bright, shiny faces to meet the kids. Then, for 84 minutes, these relatively virtuous humanitarians are forced to face enough school politics, personality conflicts, and student lethargy -- not to mention their own shortcomings -- to send them screaming into the faculty lounge.

Is it any good?

3
Chalk is earnest and well-intentioned. It has a relevant story, wonderful performances, and hilarious moments that everyone who's ever been a student or a teacher will identify with. Its relatively sophisticated, character-driven humor is derived from good intentions, inadequate preparation, and limitless egos. For viewers who like their high school comedies based on real people in authentic situations, Chalk is a welcome back-to-school treat.

That said, it's not entirely successful -- in their efforts to "keep it real," the filmmakers allow the movie's energy to sag and the pace to slow so much that it occasionally becomes lackluster and lifeless. Though filmed in the mockumentary style used so effectively in other films and even TV shows, Chalk plays much more like an actual documentary than a spoof. But one sequence -- described as a "spelling hornet" -- is as hilarious as any seen in the obvious send-ups.

Support Common Sense Media
Common Sense Media is a non-profit and will receive a portion of your purchase from Pricegrabber. Learn more.

Parents and kids say

All Reviews

There are 1 reviews.

3


Posted on 05/04/08 by HappilyEverAfter Kid contributor, age 14

Funny

I liked this movie. It had the essence of The Office. A good comedy 'doc' for teachers and kids alike.

Adult Reviews

There are 0 reviews.

There are no adult reviews.

Kids Reviews

There are 1 reviews.

3


Posted on 05/04/08 by HappilyEverAfter Kid contributor, age 14

Funny

I liked this movie. It had the essence of The Office. A good comedy 'doc' for teachers and kids alike.
Review It

Great Fantasy Books for Harry Potter Fans

Great Fantasy Books for Harry Potter Fans
Which fantasy book creature has the best name?
Fluffy (3-headed dog, Harry Potter)
20%
Mister Grin (giant crocodile, Peter and the Starcatchers)
40%
Vermicious Knid (shapeshifting monster, Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator)
0%
The Incredibly Deadly Viper (harmless snake, Series of Unfortunate Events)
0%
Bunnicula (vampire bunny, Bunnicula series)
40%
5 votes