While I thought it rather forced that the class of 8 loser recruits would become interested in "Hamlet" just because instructor Danny DeVito happened to be reading it, but in suspending my disbelief about that, I was able to enjoy this film, especially since initially I didn't even want to start watching it. The class of 8 are from all over (mostly the part of Detroit that white folks speed up when driving through), but as you get to know each of their personalities, they become very strong individuals with their own identities and sensitivities and souls you get to see every once in a while as their passion for learning is dug out of their tough facades.
DeVito changes too, going from cynical unemployed advertising man (fired because he was stuck in Atlanta traffic and missed a meeting) to teacher against his will at an army base nearby. He finds conflict with drill sergeant Gregory Hines who resents his presence even though DeVito didn't want to be there, and it's only the recruits in the class who are able to change his attitude. Hines' character suffers from some weak writing that makes his character arrogant from the start. One of the students is a young Mark Wahlberg, playing against type. Cliff Robertson, as the top officer, adds authority to his small part.
I have to single out Jenifer Lewis as the unemployment clerk DeVito deals with, filled with attitude at first over job frustration, but bringing her real personality out to get him in line and get him the benefits he's entitled to while following procedure. Her second scene ("I don't like you very much, but I'm going to miss you") is also great. She's sassy without being obnoxious and made the most of a small part which could have been stereotypical but stood out because of the sparkle in her eye. The film is greatly flawed, but I give director Penny Marshall credit for trying something unique.
DeVito changes too, going from cynical unemployed advertising man (fired because he was stuck in Atlanta traffic and missed a meeting) to teacher against his will at an army base nearby. He finds conflict with drill sergeant Gregory Hines who resents his presence even though DeVito didn't want to be there, and it's only the recruits in the class who are able to change his attitude. Hines' character suffers from some weak writing that makes his character arrogant from the start. One of the students is a young Mark Wahlberg, playing against type. Cliff Robertson, as the top officer, adds authority to his small part.
I have to single out Jenifer Lewis as the unemployment clerk DeVito deals with, filled with attitude at first over job frustration, but bringing her real personality out to get him in line and get him the benefits he's entitled to while following procedure. Her second scene ("I don't like you very much, but I'm going to miss you") is also great. She's sassy without being obnoxious and made the most of a small part which could have been stereotypical but stood out because of the sparkle in her eye. The film is greatly flawed, but I give director Penny Marshall credit for trying something unique.