Mees Kees

The premise of this kids' film is promising, if not particularly original. Meester Kees, a young student supply (US: substitute) teacher is assigned to a strict middle school whose principal believes that all work and no play makes Jack a wise boy. Kees has other ideas; he thinks that learning should be fun. His unconventional methods inevitably lead him into conflict and ultimately trouble with his boss.

The story is told from the perspective of the students and ably highlights the incomprehensibility of adults in a way that younger viewers are bound to love.

The problem with the film is that Mees Kees himself is not an inspired teacher. He is socially and professionally inept to the point of incompetence. He bumbles his way through class, teaching them nothing. In reality, his spirited pupils would have eaten him alive, rather than falling for him.

This is a charming film with great performances from the young cast, including Kees himself, but the fundamental flaw in the plot spoiled it for me. No doubt that's just because I'm getting on a bit...