Recess: School’s Out

Last Updated on: January 20th, 2024

Recess: School’s Out (2001 Movie)

“Recess: School’s Out” is an animated comedy film released in 2001, based on the popular animated TV series “Recess,” which aired on Disney’s One Saturday Morning block. The movie was produced by Walt Disney Television Animation and was the first and only theatrical film based on the TV series.

The story takes place during the summer break when the students of Third Street School are excited about their summer vacations. However, the kids soon realize that their school is in danger of being permanently closed by an evil ex-principal named Dr. Benedict, who plans to eliminate summer vacation and rule the world using a powerful laser hidden within the school’s old clock tower.

T.J. Detweiler, the unofficial leader of the Recess Gang, along with his friends – Vince, Spinelli, Gretchen, Gus, and Mikey – discovers Dr. Benedict’s sinister plan and must come together to save their beloved school and summer vacations. They must use their wit, creativity, and teamwork to outsmart the evil villain and prevent the school’s destruction.

The film combines humor, adventure, and friendship to deliver an entertaining story that captures the essence of the original TV series. It celebrates the importance of friendship and teamwork, as the Recess Gang demonstrates the power of working together to overcome challenges.

“Recess: School’s Out” received generally positive reviews from audiences and critics alike. It was praised for its humor, nostalgic appeal, and the way it successfully translated the TV series to the big screen. The film also features a soundtrack with catchy songs that add to the fun and excitement.

Despite being a moderate box office success, “Recess: School’s Out” has since gained a cult following and remains a beloved animated film among fans of the TV series. It continued to keep the spirit of the “Recess” franchise alive and introduced the characters to a wider audience through its theatrical release.

The success of the film led to the production of a direct-to-video sequel, “Recess Christmas: Miracle on Third Street,” as well as additional episodes for the TV series. “Recess: School’s Out” remains a nostalgic favorite for many who grew up watching the animated adventures of T.J. and his friends during their cherished recess time.


Fun Facts

  • “Recess: School’s Out” is a 2001 animated film based on the popular animated TV series “Recess.” The film takes place during the summer vacation and follows T.J. and his friends as they discover a plot to eliminate summer vacation by an ex-principal bent on revenge.
  • The film’s story is known for its theme of children rebelling against the idea of having their summer vacation taken away. It resonated with young viewers who could relate to the desire for a fun and free summer.
  • “Recess: School’s Out” features the return of the original voice cast from the TV series, providing continuity for fans of the show. The film combines humor, adventure, and the spirit of childhood to create an entertaining summer-themed movie.
Recess: School's Out


Additional Details

  • Movie Studio:
  • Year Released: 2001
  • Type of Movie: Animated
  • Box Office: $44.4 million
  • IMDB Link

Cast

  • Andrew Lawrence: Theodore Jasper “T.J.” Detweiler
  • Randy Crenshaw: T.J.’s singing voice
  • Rickey D’Shon Collins: Vince LaSalle
  • Jason Davis: Mikey Blumberg
  • Robert Goulet: Mikey’s singing voice
  • Ashley Johnson: Gretchen Grundler
  • Courtland Mead: Gus Griswald
  • Blake McIver Ewing: Gus’ singing voice
  • Pamela Segall: Ashley Spinelli
  • Dabney Coleman: Principal Peter Prickly
  • Melissa Joan Hart: Becky Detweiler
  • April Winchell: Muriel Finster / Mrs. Detweiler / Lunch Lady #3
  • James Woods: Dr. Phillium Benedict
  • Clancy Brown: Bald Man
  • Peter MacNicol: Professor Fenwick
  • Tony Jay: Dr. Rosenthal
  • Andrea Martin: Lunchlady Harriet
  • Tress MacNeille: Lunchlady Irma / Ms. Lemon / Opera Director / Dr. Steinheimer
  • Elizabeth Daily: Captain Sticky
  • Lee Ermey: Col. O’Malley
  • Katey Sagal: Mrs. Flo Spinelli
  • Paul Willson: Mr. Detweiler
  • Allyce Beasley: Ms. Grotke
  • Clyde Kusatsu: Mr. Yamashiro
  • Nicholas Turturro: Cop #1
  • Kevin Michael Richardson: Cop #2
  • Dan Castellaneta: Guard #1
  • Diedrich Bader: Guard #2
  • Robert Stack: Superintendent
  • Charles Kimbrough: Mort Chalk
  • Erik von Detten: Erwin Lawson / Captain Brad
  • Lane Toran: King Bob / King Fred
  • Ron Glass: Dr. Lazenby / Tech #2
  • Michael Shulman: Francis the Hustler kid
  • Anndi McAfee: Ashley A.
  • Gregg Berger: Tech #1
  • Jack Riley: Golfer #1
  • Philip Proctor: Golfer #2 / Scientist #2
  • Kath Soucie: Director / Hector / Butch
  • Ken Swofford: Coach
  • Justin Shenkarow: Soldier kid / Wrestler kid
  • Patrick Renna: Jerome
  • Nancy Cartwright: Gordy

Crew

  • Director: Chuck Sheetz
  • Producer: Joe Ansolabehere, Paul Germain and Stephen Swofford
  • Music: Denis M. Hannigan

Movie Trailer:




Related Show(s):

About the Author

Craig Smith
I am founder and editor of DisneyNews.us. My passion for all things Disney goes pretty far back to my first trip to Walt Disney World in the mid-80's. I have since returned to the magical place more than 20 times. I started this site when I came to the realization that I spent a significant portion of my day reading articles about Disney and watching Disney content with my 8-year old, so it made sense that I would start sharing some of what I read and see and building a little community around it. Other interests include 80's nostalgia, vintage toys, video games, LEGO, Star Wars and tech gadgets. Other sites include DMR and VideoGamesStats.com.