Rushmore 1998

Max Fischer, portrayed by Jason Schwartzman, is an ambitious and quirky 15-year-old attending Rushmore Academy, a prestigious boys’ school. An overachiever, Max holds titles for the presidency or founding of various clubs, showing far more enthusiasm for extracurricular activities than for his academic responsibilities. This lack of focus leads to him being placed on “sudden death academic probation” by the stern headmaster, Dr. Guggenheim (Brian Cox). Regardless of the warning that failing one more class could lead to his expulsion, Max is determined to remain at Rushmore for as long as he can.

Max’s upbringing is shaped by the absence of his mother, Eloise, who passed away from cancer when he was just seven, leaving his father, Bert, played by Seymour Cassel, to raise him amidst working-class roots. This background stands in stark contrast to the privileged lives of his wealthy classmates, driving Max’s ambition to assert himself. Despite being on scholarship—awarded for a one-act play he wrote in second grade—Max feels the pressures of fitting in with the elite Rushmore students.

During a chapel assembly, Max is captivated by a talk given by local industrialist Herman Blume, played by Bill Murray, who appears to address the lower-class underdogs like Max when he remarks that the rich kids “can’t buy backbone.” Although Blume is actually a disillusioned figure swathed in anxiety over his failing marriage, he is intrigued by Max’s confidence and charisma when they meet after the speech.

After discovering a compelling quote in a book from the library, Max’s quest leads him to Ms. Rosemary Cross (Olivia Williams), Rushmore’s new first-grade teacher. Captivated, Max crushes on her immediately. Although she finds his boldness a bit unexpected, their shared conversation piques her interest in his intellect, especially when he learns of her dismay over a canceled Latin program. In a bid to impress Ms. Cross, Max immediately switches his course and spearheads a petition that not only reinstates Latin as a mandatory class but showcases his ability to manipulate school policies.

As Max continues to pursue Ms. Cross, he finds unexpected camaraderie with Blume, who he misrepresents as the son of a neurosurgeon rather than a barber. Their friendship is deepened as Blume notices Max’s acumen and zeal, even as he grapples with his own failing marital situation. Max frequently visits Blume’s workplace, feeding off his admiration, all the while trying to profess his feelings for Ms. Cross.

Despite his relentless dedication, Ms. Cross expresses her reservations about a romantic relationship, which frustrates but doesn’t deter Max. A significant turning point occurs during the opening night of Max’s latest play when he witnesses her in the company of another man, Dr. Peter Flynn (Luke Wilson). Blume, recognizing Max’s discomfort, foolishly attempts to comfort him with alcohol, leading to Max’s erratic behavior and a public confession of his affections.

The ensuing chaos spirals as Blume and Ms. Cross enter a secretive romance, complicating Max’s feelings further. Following his expulsion for circumventing school procedures to push his aquarium project, Max’s world grows increasingly disarrayed. Despite transferring to Grover Cleveland High, he remains isolated and continues engaging in elaborate extracurricular activities that go unnoticed by his peers.

As Blume continues his affair with Ms. Cross, Max struggles with bitterness and betrayal, stirred by rumors and ultimately leading to confrontation and heartache between all involved. The relationships become increasingly tumultuous, with Max’s actions driving wedges between himself and others.

The story culminates with an artistic redemption, where after reconciling with his past misjudgments, Max stages a new play partly inspired by his experiences, inviting both Blume and Ms. Cross, seeking closure and acceptance. Amid a triumphant opening night, the eclectic mix of characters draw together, leading Max to appreciate new beginnings with the renewed friendships of his peers and a closer bond with the thoughtful Margaret Yang (Sara Tanaka).

In the final moments, as the celebratory music plays and connections form anew, both Blume and Ms. Cross consider their complicated relationship, leaving Max taking significant strides towards personal growth and maturity, embracing the heart of what truly binds them all.