School Ties (1992) Review in 2025
School Ties is a drama film about a young Jewish man who gets accepted into an elite prep school, but struggles to balance his identity with the pressure to conform.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for mature teenagers and adults due to its themes of identity, prejudice, and coming-of-age struggles.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for its engaging story, well-developed characters, and strong performances. However, it may not be the best choice for viewers looking for a more emotional or dramatic payoff.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film revolves around David Green, a working-class Jewish student who gets accepted into a prestigious prep school, where he must navigate the complexities of wealth, privilege, and anti-Semitism. As he becomes embroiled in a scandal involving a Jewish student's anti-Semitic behavior, David must confront his own identity and the expectations placed upon him.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, exploring themes of identity, prejudice, and social class. However, it feels a bit predictable and lacks a strong emotional payoff.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from the entire cast. Brendan Fraser, in particular, shines as David Green, bringing a depth and nuance to the character.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, particularly David Green, who is played by Brendan Fraser. The supporting cast is also impressive, with standout performances from Matt Damon and Chris O'Donnell.
direction7.50/10
The direction is solid, with a clear vision for the story and its themes. However, the pacing can be a bit uneven at times, and some scenes feel a bit rushed.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, capturing the atmosphere and tone of the film. The use of lighting and camera angles is particularly noteworthy, adding depth and visual interest to the scenes.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging story, well-developed characters, strong performances, excellent cinematography.
Cons
Predictable plot, uneven pacing, lack of emotional payoff.
Notable Quotes
"'I'm not going to let you define me.'"
"'You're not one of us.'"
