Whether it’s for the real life story of Brandon Lee, the secret that cannot be revealed until after seeing the movie, or the utterly unique way it is told, My Old School the movie is one to put your “definite” list. I really hope you get to see it.
While I can’t tell you too much about this one I can tell you that’s it’s based on the true story of Brandon Lee who as a 16 year old in 1993, enrolled at Bearsden Academy, a secondary school in a well-to-do suburb of Glasgow, Scotland.
I can also tell you that Brandon had dreams of becoming a doctor.
Prior to enrolling Brandon had been travelling with his opera singing mother. Privately tutored in Canada he was a very bright boy, best described as an intellect beyond his years.
This lifestyle came to an end with the tragic death of his mother and so the somewhat awkward boy entered mainstream school.
Finding a kinship with bullied students he took them under his wing, introduced classmates to seminal retro bands and even starred in the school’s production of South Pacific.
But then his unbelievable secret was revealed. That is where I will have to end it for now.
Filmmaker Jono McLeod returns to his old school for a nostalgic look at the strange but true story of his former classmate, Brandon Lee.
As the secret is revealed I pondered:
- The story is fascinating, made more so by it’s true nature;
- The secret once revealed, leaves the viewer with a whole new set of questions. It is even more impactful given the current climate;
- The techniques used in telling of the story is as interesting as the story itself. The main story teller not wanting his face on screen, we are left to watch Alan Cumming lip-syncs his replies to interviewer questions;
- Music buffs will love the trip down memory lane;
- The movie proves once again that art is indeed stranger than fiction;
- I can’t wait for friends to see it so we can discuss the outcome.
My Old School is an intriguing documentary with more than one surprise along the way.
For more information go to Perth Festival or Sommerville theatre.
-
overall
