The History Boys

The History Boys, a philosophical comedy-drama, is adapted by Alan Bennett from his own play. It was directed by Nicholas Hytner, director of the original production of The History Boys at the Royal National Theatre in London, and features the original cast of the play.

The portrayal of many philosophies from different perspectives is enclosed in a plot with a touch of pink. In 1983, 6 grammar school boys, Crowther, Posner, Dakin, Timms, Akthar, Lockwood, Scripps, and Rudge, obtaining highest school scores, starts their preparation to enter Oxford or Cambridge. The General Studies teacher, known by staff and boys alike by "Hector" (Richard Griffiths), is their favorite, and works alongside their deputy head and regular History teacher, Mrs. Lintott (Frances de la Tour). The headmaster, Felix (Clive Merrison), hires young contract teacher named Irwin (Stephen Campbell Moore) to assist Hector and Mrs Lintott. Irwin's teaching methodology was extremely different from the regular teachers. Discovering Hector's homosexuality and due to certain other reasons, the headmaster insists him retire early. The story also reflects the confusions and desires of gay student (Dakin).The journey from high school to Oxfords/ Cambridge through varied tracks build a highly convincing screenplay.

History boys received positive acclaim from critics. The National Board of Review of Motion Pictures named The History Boys one of the Top Ten Films in its 2006 awards. Griffiths and de la Tour received BAFTA nominations for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actress, respectively.

The beautiful exchange of classic dialogues deserves a onetime watch!

(Written for Pink Pages)