Were Bad Education to truly, truly break from its historical roots and become the best story it could be warped into while still remaining faithful enough to its roots to qualify for the "based on a true story" tag, it could have become something very special. Because it didn't and perhaps out of respect to the people the film portrays, it lands somewhere in the decent to good region of biopics.
Beyond the story, the acting of Jackman and Janey are both incredible, and are certainly worthy of Oscar nominations. They really propel what is a mediocre story into one that resembles something personal and enjoyable. Their performances very much deserve recognition and are some of the best of their respective careers.
That said, the script is well composed, and does well to accent the talent, but is unfortunately hindered by the otherwise uncompelling story. The story is so uncompelling that neither the main story or the side story manage to drag in the viewer and are left with a vapid and detached feeling by the end. 6/10.
Beyond the story, the acting of Jackman and Janey are both incredible, and are certainly worthy of Oscar nominations. They really propel what is a mediocre story into one that resembles something personal and enjoyable. Their performances very much deserve recognition and are some of the best of their respective careers.
That said, the script is well composed, and does well to accent the talent, but is unfortunately hindered by the otherwise uncompelling story. The story is so uncompelling that neither the main story or the side story manage to drag in the viewer and are left with a vapid and detached feeling by the end. 6/10.
