Mad, Hot Ballroom

A documentary about a ballroom dancing program for 5th graders in NYC. The movie follows three different groups, one from a school that has students who are mostly from the Dominican Republic, a school in Bensonhurst that is mostly Italian and Asian kids and a school in Manhattan (Tribeca). It was an entertaining film, much like Spellbound, and you rooted for the kids.

89%

Rock School

Rock School is a documentary about a music school in Philadelphia that teaches rock music to kids between the ages of 7 and 17. The kids range in ability and age. They are a great bunch. The main teacher, Paul Green, seems to be sadly living vicariously through the kids. He is crude, lewd and the children all seem to dig it. The viewer walks away wondering is this type of teaching good for a kid or bad. I am not sure, they seemed to be enjoying themselves and improving their playing. The highlight of the film is the Zappa Fest in Germany and the amazing CJ.

90%

From Netflix:
At Paul Green's Philadelphia music school for kids, the "three R's" are rhythm, rock and roll, as the energetic ex-rocker teaches kids the essentials of playing, singing and performing rock music. This documentary captures him working with his students, including a talented 12-year-old guitarist who just might be Hendrix's reincarnation. During the film, Green's top band is invited to perform at Zappanale, Germany's annual Zappa cover-band fest.