Watch Spud 3 - Learning to Fly
- TV-PG
- 2014
- 1 hr 23 min
-
5.7 (1,007)
Spud 3: Learning to Fly is a 2014 coming-of-age comedy-drama film that continues the story of the popular South African boarding school student, John 'Spud' Milton, played by Troye Sivan. Directed by John Barker, the film serves as a sequel to Spud and Spud 2: The Madness Continues. Set in the early 90s, the film follows Spud's fourth year at his prestigious private school, where he and his "Crazy 8" friends face new challenges and experiences. As the school's resident "loser," Spud still struggles with fitting in and finding his voice. But this year, he's determined to make his mark, even if it means enduring some wild adventures and having his heart broken.
The film opens with Spud and his friends, who have moved into the dormitory for matrics, the highest grade level at their school. Their senior year is off to a rough start as the school is in a financial crisis, with declining enrolment and increasing debts. To save the school, the students have to face new changes, including a merger with a nearby girls' school, as well as having to deal with new directors, like the eccentric Mr. Savage (John Cleese).
As Spud navigates the ups and downs of his fourth year, he becomes more reflective and deeply contemplative. He even starts writing a series of comical sketches about his misadventures, imitating his favourite British comedian, Benny Hill. However, he's faced with setbacks as he loses his beloved roommates, Rambo (Sven Ruygrok) and Gecko (Tom Burne), who have moved into the prestigious "Royal" house.
But Spud is not alone as he finds comfort in his new roommates: the musically-talented Vern (Blessing Xaba), who helps him write couplets for a rap battle, the socially-conscious Fatty (Jason Cope), who becomes his guide to ultimate ninja moves, and the always-cheerful Grayson (Josh Goddard).
Spud's life is further complicated when he falls for Amanda (Alex McGregor), a beautiful and sensitive girl who loves indie rock music. Spud tries to impress her by creating a mixtape of her favourite songs, arranging a surprise visit to the girls' school and participating in a talent show. However, he discovers that love and relationships are much more complicated than he anticipated, and he learns to cope with the harsh realities of growing up.
The film is filled with hilarious and heartwarming moments as well as poignant emotional scenes that will make the audience laugh and cry. Troye Sivan shines in his portrayal of Spud, demonstrating his range as an actor as he evolves from a clumsy and awkward teenager to a matured young adult. Supporting actors, including Sven Ruygrok, Blessing Xaba, Alex McGregor, and John Cleese, bring depth and subtlety to their characters, making them more than just one-dimensional stereotypes.
Overall, Spud 3: Learning to Fly is an entertaining and engaging film that takes audiences on an unforgettable journey through the ups and downs of adolescence. It's a highly relatable story that captures the essence of growing up, finding oneself and relating to others. The beautiful setting, combined with its lively soundtrack, makes this film a must-see for anyone who loves coming-of-age stories that are witty, insightful, and full of heart.
Spud 3 - Learning to Fly is a 2014 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.