Detachment 2011
America's school system is failing. Once, that was the headline that sparks discussion across the country questioning the United States' education system. Peter McAllister, a teacher voices out the reasons why the American Schools have poor performance. Similarly, Detachment, a movie by Toni Kaye, attempts to shed light on this matter.
Detachment follows a story of a jaded English substitute teacher called Henry, played by Adrien Brody. He is unable to stay longer in one place and forms any meaningful relationship. This time, he teaches at a high school with a poor reputation and is filled with troubled teenagers from dysfunctional families. Henry's short stay in that high school is colored by his sudden meeting of a young homeless prostitute, a depressed girl who loves art, and the school's teachers. Henry also has a grandfather who has a mental illness and is in elderly care. Though insignificant part of the plot, his grandfather reminds him of his childhood trauma that he is yet to overcome. As the story progresses, it attempts to shed light that the teachers are not perfect. They have problems, and they carry the problem even to school that also affects their performance. However, so are the parents who have lack interest in their children's education as during the parent's night, no parents would come. And the most senior teacher reminiscing their old days where the parent's night would be packed as they dance to a song. Not only that, but we also get to see how children are interested in learning provided that they get the proper guidance. In the end, the story leaves a cryptic message as it shows an abandoned school and Henry inside the decaying classroom.
Directed by Toni Kaye, known for his hard-hitting story, such as American History X, Detachment leaves a similar impression. It is raw and honest, especially with evocative monologues and dialogues. Throughout the movie, the atmosphere is dark and sad. It is also often shot at night with minimal lighting. This movie also feels like watching a documentary as Henry does some monologues attempting to explain the scenes. Brody great acting, making this even more believable that it was a documentary and actual events rather than a fictional piece. This movie's visual effects give the watcher hints on what's about to come in the scene.
Though the tone of the story is quite depressing, there is some comedic element, especially from the pervy old teacher who jokes about taking pills to cope with the student's behavior. Even with the background stories from the teachers and the students, this movie leaves a hole as it does not attempt to solve the current problem. It is merely projecting the issues that are happening at schools in America. Yet again, that is one among many messages that this movie tries to convey.
When we look at Henry, it will leave another perspective and message, as he said;
"I realized something today. I'm a non-person, Sarah. You shouldn't be here, I'm not here. You may see me, but I'm hollow." Adrien Brody - Henry Barthe
Have fun watching !
It seems interesting and I love that actor, he is very good.
oh yeah, his acting in both movies were outstanding. That makes me want to watch his other movies.
One of my favorite movies ever. Since i'm such a doomer, this one hits hard for me.