Movie spotlight
School for Scoundrels
In the hope of winning the woman of his dreams, Amanda, lovelorn meter-reader Roger Wadell enrolls in a secret confidence-building class. The course's title takes on much more meaning when he discovers that his egomaniacal professor Dr. P also wants the same woman. They begin a fierce rivalry that quickly spirals out of control, their pranks and insults get uglier as they try to prove who is the ultimate guy's guy.
Insights
Plot Summary
Roger is a meek and anxiety-ridden young man who is constantly being taken advantage of. Desperate for a change, he enrolls in Dr. P. Shimper's School of Winning, a course designed to teach people how to be more assertive and successful. However, he soon discovers that Dr. Shimper is a ruthless con artist who uses unethical and manipulative tactics to achieve his goals, and Roger must find his own way to overcome his insecurities.
Critical Reception
School for Scoundrels was met with generally negative reviews from critics, who found the humor to be juvenile and the plot predictable. While some praised the performances of Jon Heder and Jamie Pressly, the film was largely seen as a missed opportunity and a disappointment.
What Reviewers Say
The film relies too heavily on slapstick humor and predictable gags.
Jon Heder's performance is a highlight, but it's not enough to save the movie.
The premise of a 'school for scoundrels' offers potential, but the execution falls flat.
Google audience: Audience reviews suggest that while some found the film amusing and appreciated Jon Heder's comedic timing, many felt it was unfunny, repetitive, and relied on tired comedic tropes. The plot was often described as nonsensical and the characters unlikable.
Awards & Accolades
None notable.
Fun Fact
The character of Mrs. Higgins, played by Amy Sedaris, was originally written as a male character. Sedaris reportedly improvised many of her lines.
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