Surprise in not another teen movie

I was sitting down to watch what I thought would be yet another brainless teen movie when to my surprise - there was a message! And not one of the obvious 'don't do drugs' 'don't have sex' messages that you would expect. Nor was it the message of 'every teenager is just like the rest - below the surface.' The unexpected twist is not in the plot but in the fact that this story is based on the actual experiences of teens in America. Though playing on the extremes of the inflated powers of the administration, the cast still maintain a realistic bond of rebellion without seeming cliché.

I am reminded of the angst portrayed in The Breakfast Club, although this motley crew have not been forced into bond of rebellion. They are united by events that were beyond their control, to create action within their control. They didn't just endure a day of detention and go away learning a great lesson about each other; they know how unique they are and how unfair and unjust system is for their fellow students.

I was impressed by the actors as well as by the story and I look forward to watching this again with friends. It's the kind of movie that no teen should ever have to relate to, but without being so heavy that you can't enjoy the laughs.