3.5, United States/Canada

Art School Confidential

2006 / Terry Zwigoff > The term overcriticized is arguably the best way to describe Zwigoff’s follow-up to the heart-warming, gut-wrenching family drama Bad Santa. Be warned, however: This is a bitterly made film, one with direct and ebullient comtempt for the academic world of art. It’s unfortunate that such a well-made satire will be lost on many, especially those who will identify a little too well with the characters in the film. By the end, the joke is on everyone but those who have distanced themselves from such a subjective industry. As long as one does not take the film too seriously, the underlying message, however exaggerated, is in my opinion appropriate and necessary.

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