Not everyday do students try to take over a school, but in the movie Middle School: The Worst Years Of My Life, we see a compelling case for why students should have more of a say in their education. Rafe (a student played by Griffin Gluck) has transferred to a new school, Hills Village Middle School, after being kicked out of his previous one. He leads a rebellion that makes a big impact. Over the holiday break, I watched this movie with my daughter. We enjoyed the artistic graphic novel aspect, and we were happy to root for the underdog character.
Middle School: The Worst Years Of My Life Movie Review
At Hills Village, Rafe – with his love for art and disinterest in the rules – instantly clashes with his new principal, Mr. Ken Dwight (Andy Daly). Rafe sets out to break every single school rule. This happens at the worst possible time for Principal Dwight during the weeks leading up to standardized testing. Since testing is such a hot topic in schools today, I liked that the movie examined a current issue with a hip, modern style to appeal to different ages.
Heartfelt But Common Plot Falls Short Of Turning The Rules Upside Down
Many movies set in schools focus on giving an inspirational message in an expected way. From Freedom Writers to School of Rock the overarching message is often one of overcoming the odds. In these movies, students typically learn to make the most out of their situation in life, despite their shortcomings. While this movie is no different, it does make a genuine effort to use artistic visuals and plot twists that would appeal to a young audience of adolescents, with elements that can appeal to parents as well.
Artistic Visuals Appeal To An Audience Of Different Ages
Some visual highlights of the movie include the walls that Rafe covers in post-it note artwork and the hallways that he fills with a paint-infused dance party. I enjoyed seeing the artistic, over the top statements. My daughter loved the part when paint came through the sprinkler system at the school. Every student looked happy and free.
Discovering why Rafe is acting out was interesting. The previous year, Rafe lost his younger brother. Not only was the brother a companion, but also an uplifting child with a good sense of humor. Then, his mom started dating a new man. Unfortunately, his mom has no idea that the guy is terrible deep down and has his priorities completely set wrong.
Middle School: The Worst Years Of My Life was released on Blu Ray on January 3, 2017. It is a fun family drama with plenty of comedy that can bring joy to a cold, winter’s day.
While watching the movie, I wasn’t sure if it would be too mature for my six year old. I was happy to discover that not only did she enjoy watching the movie, but also that it was overall appropriate for her. Check out the trailer to get a glimpse of what you’re in for if you watch the movie.
What recent movie release have you enjoyed watching in your home this winter? As the snow flurries outside, I’m eager to discover great movies. Share your recommendations in the comments.
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Disclosure: I received an item for free, but it in no way influenced my opinion!
I remember when this came out in theaters. I gotta admit that it was not high on my priority list, but it may be worth a shot. I might just watch it soon.
I missed this in the theaters but am interested in checking it out now. My daughter is in 8th grade so middle school is a part of my life.
I’ve never even heard of this one but I admit it looks interesting. Might just grab it for the next movie night with the grandchildren. Thanks for sharing it Theresa!
Fun! Will have to check it out the next time I’m hanging out with the kiddos I babysit from time to time. Thank you for giving your opinion!
I have never hear of it but the title got my attention. Definitely sounds like something worth checking out.
I’ve never heard of this movie until I read this and appreciate your perspective. I don’t think it would be the first movie I would choose to watch on the weekend but will keep it in mind if I am looking for a movie with the right audience.
I’ve actually never heard of this movie before but I think it’s something that my whole family would watch together 🙂
Loved your honest review. I was also skeptical about letting my 6 year old watch it. Glad to know he might enjoy it and not take away anything terrible from it
I just saw a trailer for this movie! I’ve been dying to watch it with my oldest! Thanks for the review!
I am glad I read this because I had heard it wasn’t appropriate for little kids. I will get it and we will have a family movie night soon!
OMG the post it note covered office is soooo hilarious! I am definitely going to have to see this movie!
I hadn’t even heard of that movie, but may have to check it out! It’s good to know it’s good for a six year old, because we are always looking for family friendly movies to enjoy with my niece.
I am glad that it was age appropriate and you could watch it together as a family. It sounds like a great story about education x
This looks and sounds like a great movie for all ages. I like movies that captivate all audiences, and it looks like it’ll be quite entertaining! xx Adaleta Avdic
i havent heard of this movie before. i bet i would know if my kids were that age. however, i love movies and i’m sure i would enjoy this and probably bring back some old memories of when i was in middle school
Wow, sounds like so much fun. I didn’t get to watch the movie yet but I’d love to, very soon. Love the post-it note artwork. Lol.
I’m sure this is an interesting movie to watch, especially when you have kids that same age!
Even though I’ve never watched this movie, but it sounds like a great teen movie. The title is quite eye catching, and it’s nice to watch teen movie that can be watched by all ages.
It wasn’t at home but on a plane. I watched “Bad Moms” and thoroughly enjoyed it. I think all women can relate to it in some way or another. I don’t have kids and I laughed throughout.
Ooooo this sounds like one awesome movie!!! I bet my daughter would get a kick out of it!!!
I’ve never heard of this movie but middle school is certainly the most awful time for a lot of people. Such an awkward stage.
I watched this movie with my kids and I didn’t realize that his brother wasn’t alive until this end. I cried like a baby. 🙁 It was a touching movie. The mom though. She really annoyed me & I love Lauren Graham. Lol
This sounds super interesting. i remember my awkward middle school years. Man, I was a hormone raging mess!
I saw this movie at Redbox and was wondering if it was worth a watch. The title definitely caught my eye as I commonly refer to my jr high days as the worst two years of my life.
To be honest, this is the first time that I’m hearing about this movie. I think it’s awesome that kids can relate to it. I have a child in middle school and I’d love for him to see this one.