Great Teacher Onizuka (1999) Review in 2025
Great Teacher Onizuka is a 1999 Japanese film based on the manga series of the same name. The movie follows the story of Eikichi Onizuka, a former biker gang leader who becomes a high school teacher.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes and language, but it's a great watch for teenagers and adults who enjoy comedy-drama films.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of comedy-drama films, particularly those who enjoy unique and quirky characters. It's also a great choice for anyone looking for a film that explores themes of identity, community, and the challenges of teaching.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie takes a dramatic turn when Onizuka's unorthodox teaching methods lead to a confrontation with the school's administration, resulting in a series of events that challenge his authority and test his dedication to his students.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a unique blend of comedy and drama that keeps the viewer interested. The plot is well-developed and explores themes of identity, community, and the challenges of teaching.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with Takashi Sorimachi delivering a standout performance as Onizuka. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from the students and teachers.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Onizuka being a particularly memorable and endearing protagonist. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from the students and teachers.
direction9.00/10
The direction is excellent, with Takeshi Kitano bringing a unique visual style and tone to the film. The pacing is well-balanced, with a good mix of humor and drama.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a vibrant and colorful visual style that brings the characters and settings to life. The camera work is often innovative and creative, adding to the film's overall impact.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's unique blend of comedy and drama, engaging storyline, and memorable characters make it a standout film. The direction and cinematography are also excellent, adding to the film's overall impact.
Cons
The movie's pacing can be a bit uneven at times, and some viewers may find the humor to be a bit off-putting. However, these are minor complaints in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a teacher, I'm a friend."
"You can't teach someone who doesn't want to learn."
"You're not just a student, you're a part of the class."
