TotalTelly.co.uk
Devoted to Popular, Cult and Retro TV
Ahead Of The Class [2005]
![Ahead Of The Class [2005]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/516V8QA0V0L._SL160_.jpg)
RRP: £12.99
Our Price: £3.73 (subject to change)
A Touching Drama
Review date: 2008-08-31 Rating: 10 out of 10
I bought this after seeing it on TV. Straight away I watched it again. Read the reviews, then buy it - it's not like it's going to break the bank! Well worth the watch as it is a touching drama with a great storyline!
Similar Products
Reviews
Wholesome entertainment, bursting with cheeky surprises.
Review date: 2008-01-31 Rating: 10 out of 10
I rarely give a five star review, so you can take it this is something special.
Julia Walters always brings much of her own personally to a part. In this case that isn't a problem. She is totally convincing as headmistress. You can easily believe that she has all confidence and inginuity to get the job done.
The best performance I think goes to Tony Slatery. He is excellent as the leader of the disgruntled teachers who are determined to resist the wind of change.
Whilst this is based on a true story it isn't entirely real. There were no long term failures shown amongst the pupils and teachers. That reduced the overall credibility and impact as a history piece, but it is good entertaining theatre.
St Georges serves as a reminder that every school can be turned around with enough determination. We see that the sacrifices of Philip Lawrence were not in vain.
You will not be sorry if you buy this film. Its a great watch.
This is an outstanding film.
Review date: 2007-09-12 Rating: 10 out of 10
I agree wholeheartedly with Gary Rawlings' assessment of this film. 'Ahead of the Class' tells the inspirational story of how failure and underachievement in inner-city, socio-economically deprived schools and areas can be challenged and overcome. Julie Waters provides determined and exceptional leadership in this role as Lady Stubbs - a stern yet highly dedicated headteacher. Her energy, enthusiasm and sheer persistence for higher standards and rapid school improvement come across so well in this dramatisation of her own book.
Strongly recommended, inspirational viewing in my view. I've got the book and the DVD that's for sure!
David Hatchett
Outstanding - a must see!
Review date: 2007-03-07 Rating: 10 out of 10
This is, quite simply, an amazing piece of television. Julie Walters is, once again and as always, outstanding. This real-life story is so well put together it has left me, and all those I know, in tears at the end - each time they have watched it.
The story recalls how the notorious St George's (Westminster) School was rescued from closure and special measures by Headteacher Marie Stubbs. The programme carefully dramatises the ups and downs that the staff and pupils encounter in this tough inner city secondary school.
The part of Marie Stubbs, Headteacher, could not have been played by a better actress. Julie Walters captures our hearts throughout as we follow her on a journey to turn around the London school. From disengaged pupils to teaching staff who have lost all energy and enthusiasm in their profession - Ahead of the Class is remarkable.
It's a must see and is certainly one of the best dramas I have ever had the pleasure to watch.
Product Details/Specifications
Actor(s):
Inday Ba
Danny Nussbaum
Julie Walters
Michelle Fairley
Reece Dinsdale
Creators:
Julie Walters (Primary Contributor)
Inday Ba (Primary Contributor)
Elli Jason (Producer)
Michael Foster (Producer)
Paula McBreen (Producer)
Simon Heath (Producer)
Sue Latimer (Producer)
Marie Stubbs (Writer)
Robert Jones (Writer)
Director(s):
Recording label: ITV DVD
Manufacturer: ITV DVD
EAN: 5037115108333
Binding: DVD
Number of items: 1
Format: PAL,
Release date: 2005-03-14
Aspect ratio: 1.78:1
Audience rating: Suitable for 15 years and over
Region code: 2
Running time: 94 minutes
Theatrical release date: 2005-01-30
Language: English (Original Language)