Synopsis

In 1960s Oregon, aspiring composer Glenn Holland takes a high school music teaching job to support his family while writing a symphony in his spare time. Over three decades, changing culture, personal challenges, and the needs of his students reshape his priorities. When budget cuts threaten the music program, Holland discovers that his true legacy may be found in the lives he has influenced.

Factoids & Trivia

• Composer Michael Kamen said the film inspired the creation of the Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation, a nonprofit that provides musical instruments to schools and students.

• Kamen's piece "An American Symphony," performed at the film's conclusion, won the Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Arrangement in 1997.

• Julian Lennon performs "Cole's Song," the main theme associated with Holland's deaf son.

• The performers portraying deaf characters were deaf in real life, adding authenticity to the film's signing scenes.

• Jean Louisa Kelly performed her own singing and dancing in the film. She had professional training in both areas.

• The story spans roughly thirty years, allowing the soundtrack to trace changing musical tastes from the 1960s through the 1990s.

• The film runs approximately 144 minutes and was released in 1995 by Hollywood Pictures.

• Richard Dreyfuss received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his performance as Glenn Holland.