Review: 'Bad Teacher' Gives High School Movies A Raunchy Twist

By Michael Lopez

Talk about a movie that lives up to its title. Stand and Deliver THIS IS NOT! But with so many other "inspirational" high school pelis out there, Bad Teacher actually offers a breath of originality and fresh air. Just keep in mind, there's a reason it’s got an R-Rating attached to it.

Only someone like Cameron Diaz could make you want to root for a despicable teacher. On paper, her Ms. Halsey character is selfish, materialistic, and downright crude. But with Cameron's trademark charisma, she actually comes off as somewhat likeable.

From the beginning it's clear that Halsey could care less about "making a difference." All she wants are fancy cars, designer clothes, and a nice sugar daddy to pay for it all. But when her rich fiancée leaves her high and dry, she's forced to fall back on a teaching career (and that's when the real fun begins).

Though Diaz does a great job carrying the movie, it's actually her colorful coworkers that deliver the most memorable lines. There's The Office’s Phyllis Smith as the awkward Ms. Davies, Lucy Punch as goodie two-shoes Ms. Squirrell, and Tr3s fave Justin Timberlake turning in a deprecating "dorky" performance as Mr. Delacorte. Each of them have great moments and display genuine onscreen chemistry with Cameron.

We all know why Diaz and JT work so well together, but interestingly it's Jason Segal's character that winds up being the best match for Ms. Halsey. His Coach Gettis is also a bit rough around the edges and proves to be the perfect R-Rated sparring partner for the Bad Teacher.

Now when all is said and done, will Ms. Halsey change her ways and become a positive role model to her students? We're not going to reveal that twist here, but let's just say this movie isn't afraid to stay true to its raunchy roots.

Bottom line: Bad Teacher deserves a solid A- for its ability to push the comedy envelope. Cameron Diaz really lays herself on the line with this role and isn't afraid to drop a few "F-bombs" to get her point across. For that alone, it definitely makes the grade.

Do you plan on catching Cameron's Bad Teacher? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Bad Teacher, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cameron Diaz, Hot Stuff, Jason Segal, Justin Timberlake, Movie Reviews, Movies & CineMás