Review of Heaven Help Us

I attended a Catholic school in my youth and that's why, when I saw a story written by Charles Purpura about life in a Catholic setting I had to see how many inaccuracies they would offer. The film is called " Heaven Help Us " directed by Michael Dinner. It purports to relate the story of a transfer student named Michael Dunn (Andrew McCarthy) who due to family problems is transferred to a new academic setting. The headmaster of the school is Brother Thadeus (Donald Sutherland) a fair minded, but serious disciplinarian who reminds all students of the obligation they owe to friends, family and community at large. Dunn is befriended by a local group led by a bragging, trouble starting, self- centered boy named Rooney (Kevin Dillon) who reminds Dunn of the need for close friendship and loyalty. Although one or two of the Teachers are harsh and overly strict, favor the physical punishment by the 'Rod', most are good souls like Brother Timothy (John Heard) who offer understanding and compassion. This surprising story is full of wonderful school memories and innocent interaction with young girls. Indeed, most of the film allow audiences to re-live their youth, if only to remember the social difficulties which many thought would never end. The result, a fond look at yesterday and the actors who reminded us of ourselves. Great fun. ****