Making the Grade

Then-high school junior Corey Smith's student film makes the honor roll! In this cute short, a mathematically challenged girl daydreams about her dreamboat teacher (Hugh Jackman) while preparing for an important exam. The twist ending is creative and bespeaks a bright future for the budding auteur. The script was obviously good enough to attract the participation of A-lister action/musical star Hugh Jackman--who was gracious enough to lend his time and talents--and gain the attention of MTV, which premiered it on "Total Request Live." The live audience reaction was overwhelmingly positive, and deservedly so. Smith was recognized by the New Jersey Student Film Festival for his auspicious debut. I see a Spielbergian future for this up-and-coming filmmaker!

I thought it to be a Brilliant film that was made by a young man who showed professionalism status all the way. The whole concept was Breathtakingly fresh. The young actors were exceptional & Hugh definitely gave off his charismatic sex appeal as he always does in his films & in real life. You could feel the connection among all of them involved. It reminded me of my school girl days in high school when we had a hunk for a teacher. Never could any of us birds concentrate on the actual school work that was given to us by him. We'd be off day dreaming about him. This film brought back lasting memories. All in all mates I would go over the 10 rating.

While the idea behind this story isn't a new one, these film students have given it a fun twist. Hey, who hasn't daydreamed about a teacher at least once in class? I believe they have presented a film that will bring a smile to your face and probable memories of your own teacher crush in school. Under Corey Smith's direction, Hugh Jackman and the actors were comfortable with each other and thus able to present such an entertaining short piece. Corey's ability to work with a well-known star, as well as his fellow students, is obvious and tells me there are great films in his future. I felt the song played during class time was perfect for the theme, and liked the special effects. Also, being able to film in the actual school, instead of a storeroom, made the look of the film more professional.