Ep 86. Back to School Special

Maltin on Movies season 1 episode 86, titled "Back to School Special," is a nostalgic exploration of classic and contemporary films that revolve around school and education. Hosted by acclaimed film critic and historian Leonard Maltin, this episode brings together a diverse range of guests, including actors, directors, and writers, to discuss the movies that have shaped our understanding of the school experience.

From the lighthearted comedies of the 1980s, such as "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "The Breakfast Club," to the more serious and dramatic films of recent years, like "Moonlight" and "Lady Bird," Maltin and his guests explore the various themes and messages that these films convey about education, adolescence, and the challenges of navigating the social hierarchies of high school.

One of the main topics of discussion in this episode is the evolving nature of the high school movie over the years. Maltin and his guests analyze how the genre has changed from the teen comedies of the 1980s, which primarily focused on the struggles of white, middle-class students, to the more diverse and inclusive films of the 2010s, which reflect the experiences of a wider range of students from different backgrounds and cultures.

Throughout the episode, Maltin and his guests share personal anecdotes and insights about their own experiences in school, and how these experiences have influenced their appreciation of the films that deal with similar themes. They delve into the timeless appeal of coming-of-age stories, and how they connect with audiences across generations.

Of course, no episode about school movies would be complete without a discussion of some of the most beloved and iconic films in the genre. Maltin and his guests take a closer look at classics like "Dead Poets Society" and "Stand and Deliver," discussing what makes these films so enduringly popular and how they continue to resonate with audiences today.

In addition to examining the films themselves, this episode also explores the impact that they have had on popular culture and society as a whole. Maltin and his guests discuss how films like "Dangerous Minds" and "Lean on Me" have inspired real-life educators and fueled important debates about educational reform in the United States.

Overall, "Back to School Special" is a fascinating and enjoyable episode that will appeal to both movie lovers and anyone who has ever experienced the joys and challenges of the school experience. With its mix of personal anecdotes, thoughtful analysis, and insightful commentary, this episode offers a unique and engaging perspective on one of the most enduring genres in cinema history.