The History Boys is a 2006 British comedy-drama film directed by Nicholas Hytner, based on the play of the same name by Alan Bennett. It follows a group of eight boys, known as "the History Boys," all attending an all-boys grammar school in Sheffield, England, in the early 1980s.
The boys are all exceptionally bright and talented, but struggle with finding direction and purpose in their lives. Their unorthodox English teacher, Hector, played by Richard Griffiths, is loved by the boys for his offbeat teaching style and passion for literature and poetry. However, he is not concerned with helping them pass exams or get into university.
In contrast, their new young and ambitious teacher, Irwin, played by Stephen Campbell Moore, is hired to help the boys shine in their university entrance exams. He teaches them how to analyze and manipulate history, emphasizing the importance of presentation over accuracy.
The boys are also challenged in their pursuit of learning by their headmaster, played by Clive Merrison, who is more concerned with the school's league table rankings than the boys' individual intellectual development.
The film explores themes such as education, sexuality, class, and the meaning of knowledge and learning. It showcases the hilarious and heartwarming relationships between the boys and their teachers, providing an insightful commentary on the British education system.
The History Boys received critical acclaim and was praised for its performances, music, and direction. It was nominated for several awards, including four Academy Awards, and won the Best Picture award at the British Independent Film Awards.
