“The Learning Curve,” a short film adapted from the work of acclaimed humorist David Sedaris, has garnered attention for its witty and insightful portrayal of a young professor’s initial foray into teaching. Winning the Audience’s Favorite Short award at the Monadnock International Film Festival (MONIFF), the film offers a fresh perspective on education, student-teacher dynamics, and the often-unpredictable nature of the learning process. Directed by Phil McCarty and featuring Matthew Gray Gubler as the character Mr. Sedaris, “The Learning Curve” resonates with educators and film enthusiasts alike for its relatable scenarios and humorous approach to overcoming classroom challenges.
The Story of “The Learning Curve”: Bridging the Gap in the Classroom
“The Learning Curve” humorously depicts Mr. Sedaris, a newly graduated college professor brimming with enthusiasm, as he faces his first creative writing class. His initial high expectations are quickly dashed by a classroom of students who appear disengaged and uninterested in writing. The film masterfully captures Mr. Sedaris’s journey as he navigates the challenges of connecting with his students and igniting their passion for writing.
Director Phil McCarty highlights the film’s central tension, noting, “If the students and the teachers are roughly the same age, it is harder for him to establish control of the classroom. That draws more tension in the story.” This age proximity becomes a key element in the narrative, creating both obstacles and opportunities for Mr. Sedaris to find unconventional methods to reach his students. The film cleverly illustrates that effective teaching isn’t always about strict control but about finding relatable common ground and fostering open communication.
Devlyn Bent, an education major at Keene State College, found the film particularly resonant, stating, “You always have all these expectations before you teach; sometimes things don’t go as you planned.” Bent identified with Mr. Sedaris’s experiences, recognizing the film’s portrayal of the unexpected hurdles and the importance of adaptability in teaching. She also noted the positive side of a younger teacher’s approach, suggesting that students might feel more comfortable sharing and communicating openly with someone closer to their age. “The Learning Curve” ultimately suggests that education can be engaging and even humorous, moving beyond traditional, overly serious approaches.
David Sedaris and the Journey from Page to Screen
“The Learning Curve” is an adaptation of an essay penned by the celebrated writer and humorist David Sedaris. Initially, Sedaris was hesitant about allowing his work to be adapted for the screen. According to McCarty, Sedaris expressed reservations about others modifying his writing. However, after reviewing the proposal and the direction the filmmakers intended to take, Sedaris embraced the project. McCarty recounts, “He said he really like the way we illustrated the idea. He was very excited about it.”
To faithfully translate Sedaris’s distinctive voice and character to film, McCarty immersed himself in Sedaris’s literary works, reading all of his books. This deep dive allowed McCarty to capture the essence of Sedaris’s persona, his preferences, and his unique worldview, ensuring an authentic representation of the writer’s spirit in the film.
Matthew Gray Gubler as Mr. Sedaris: Intelligence and Charm Personified
The casting of Matthew Gray Gubler as Mr. Sedaris is a significant draw for “The Learning Curve.” Gubler, widely recognized for his role as Dr. Spencer Reid in “Criminal Minds,” brings a blend of intelligence and quirky charm to the character. Producer Phree Swearingen emphasized Gubler’s perfect fit for the role, stating, “Matthew was just right for the role, he was our first choice, he found himself in the character quickly.”
McCarty highlighted the importance of casting to the film’s success, noting, “If you cast correctly, you almost don’t have to do any work. Matthew sounds smarts and that makes everything a lot easier.” Gubler’s inherent intelligence and on-screen presence seamlessly align with the character of Mr. Sedaris, enhancing the film’s believability and comedic timing. Just as Gubler leaves a unique mark on his roles, his portrayal of Mr. Sedaris is infused with his signature blend of intellect and captivating charm, making the character both relatable and memorable.
Visual Storytelling: The Chalkboard’s Animated Insights
A distinctive and effective element of “The Learning Curve” is its use of animation, particularly through the chalkboard in Mr. Sedaris’s classroom. McCarty considers this visual technique to be “one of the best ideas we came up with,” noting how it evolved to play a more prominent role in the film’s storytelling. Words and drawings dynamically appear on the chalkboard, visually representing Mr. Sedaris’s inner thoughts, emotions, and evolving approach to teaching.
This animated chalkboard becomes almost a character in itself, providing a visual layer to the narration and Gubler’s performance. It offers the audience a glimpse into Mr. Sedaris’s internal struggles and his journey of self-discovery as he grapples with the realities of teaching. The combination of Gubler’s nuanced acting, the witty narration, and the inventive chalkboard animation creates a rich and engaging viewing experience.
“The Learning Curve”: A Rewarding Lesson for Educators
“The Learning Curve”‘s focus on education proved to be a fitting and perhaps serendipitous reward for Keene State College’s sponsorship and hosting of MONIFF. The film’s themes of adapting teaching methods, connecting with students, and finding humor in the educational process are highly relevant for educators and those entering the field. “The Learning Curve” offers a valuable and entertaining perspective for teachers, reminding them of the importance of flexibility, empathy, and even a touch of humor in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of education and youth engagement. It’s a film that both seasoned and aspiring teachers can appreciate for its lighthearted yet insightful take on the learning curve inherent in teaching.
Source: Keene-Equinox
