The Emperor's Club is one of those films that possesses all the good intentions in the world, but ...
Comment
11/22/02
The Emperor's Club (2002)
50
%
Tomatometer
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Reviews Counted:125
Fresh:63
Rotten:62
Average Rating:5.8/10
Consensus: Though Kline is excellent in his portrayal of Hundert, the movie is too dull and sentimental to distinguish itself from other titles in its genre.
Runtime: 1 hr 50 mins
Genre: Dramas
Synopsis: At St. Benedict's prep school, the boys are disciplined, mannered, and ready to learn. But when a bad apple enters the classroom of the well-respected Mr. Hundert (Kevin Kline), chaos ensues.... [More]
Starring: Kevin Kline, Emile Hirsch, Steven Culp, Patrick Dempsey
Director: Michael Hoffman
Reviews for The Emperor's Club
It's comfortable and pleasant, and if you squint you can practically see Dead Poets Society. And then it surprises -- just a bit, but enough.
11/22/02
Despite certain individual characteristics and plot particulars, [Kline's] character goes through most of the same motions we've seen before and then runs into a contrived third act that does neither him nor the film any good.
11/22/02
A substantial examination of character, morality and destiny.
11/22/02
Why should Hundert ever fancy himself a blend of Mr. Chips and Dr. Ruth? The movie sets up a false ideal and then wrecks it, as if it were a noble ruin near the Parthenon.
11/22/02
Its valuable message makes it a must-see for children and teenagers, and even more so for those callous adults who have become casually corrupt in their efforts to simply get through life.
11/22/02
Worth seeing, if only for Kline's subtle, affecting portrayal.
11/22/02
With a potentially fascinating study of ethics, of how cheating rich boys become cheating rich men while humble souls do more good in the world, The Emperor's Club doesn't take the audience anywhere smart.
11/22/02
Everything about The Emperor's Club feels like recycled goods.
11/22/02
This is a film of enormous heart, compassion and intelligence that tackles vital issues with wrenching, thought-provoking honesty and cinematic skill.
11/22/02
A well-meaning movie that proves to be fairly forgettable once you leave the theater.
11/22/02
The strength and heart of The Emperor's Club is Kline's masterful performance, rich in subtlety and overflowing with warmth.
11/22/02
For all the charm of Kevin Kline and a story that puts old-fashioned values under the microscope, there's something creepy about this movie.
11/22/02
The film has the uncanny ability to right itself precisely when you think it's in danger of going wrong.
11/22/02
It doesn't leave much of an impression afterward.
11/22/02
If you stay with the story's overly familiar arc, there is an unexpected plot twist that redeems the film, and makes a valuable point.
11/22/02
Only two-fifths of a satisfying movie experience.
11/22/02
Report card: Doesn't live up to the exalted tagline - there's definite room for improvement. Doesn't deserve a passing grade (even on a curve).
11/22/02
There’s plenty to like about The Emperor’s Club, but it is to be especially applauded for an ending that feels both satisfying and realistic. The characters don’t make sudden life discoveries, and they don’t betray their own nature simply to make u
11/22/02
Movies like this don't get made very often. This is a film that strives to show that integrity and honesty are worthy virtues.
11/22/02
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