I forgot how much I loved this film. This was one of my go-tos in the mid-90s. It was a film I recommended constantly, one I played in the store, and loved Richard Dreyfuss’ performance as the titular Mr. Holland.

An ode to teachers, the film follows Mr, Holland, as he takes a teaching position as a fallback position, only to find his life’s calling, and the effect he has on those he teaches. Filled with moments of joy and discovery the film resonates all the more today.

Featuring a standout score by Michael Kamen, a vibrant soundtrack, and a supporting cast that includes William H. Macy, Glenne Headly, Alicia Witt, Jay Thomas, and Olympia Dukakis, Mr. Holland’s Opus remains a magical joy to watch filled with happy crying. And sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

The journey through Holland’s life is brought to beautiful life by Dreyfuss, who arguably, has never been better (and I love Jaws). We see his personal and professional triumphs and faults, and the importance of family, and those who affect our lives, particularly teachers.

I love that as the story progresses, the Hollands, Glen (Dreyfuss) and Iris (Headly) have a child together. And for someone who has made music their life, to discover that their child is deaf, and how that plays out… it’s so well done.

There’s beauty and inspiration throughout the film, and it leaves one shedding happy tears throughout (I’m not kidding – this most recent rewatch wrecked me).

Everything works in this one, and you could argue about it being sentimental, but it also feels authentic, and all of it is grounded, powerfully, in the heartfelt performance of Dreyfuss. The role, quite rightly, was nominated for an Oscar for his performance. It’s truly unfortunate that he didn’t win.

Teachers deserve so much more than what they get in terms of respect and recognition. I’m one of those who believe that teachers should be paid a lot more than they are getting. They are the true superstars, and this film supports that.

And those among them who teach music and art, programs that are often in danger of being cut, they are prized.

I enjoy everything in this film, the character work, the real-life humor, the music, the pacing, the subjects, the way that it gives us a look at a life, and the effect that life has on others.

This is an amazing and powerful film, and I can’t believe I haven’t watched it in so long. It’s beautiful, and just what I needed today. If you haven’t seen it, do yourself the favor. If you haven’t, I can’t recommend it enough, take a look at this one, and share it.