Educational Media Reviews Online

Director Mike Stryker targets driver education instructors who want to make sure that just about every topic that ought to be mentioned in a driver’s education class gets some play. While the title implies that five tips will be covered in depth, instead the video offers a large number of driving tips organized into five categories. The movie has three pricing models, all of which include public performance rights. An instructor guide is provided.

Teaching driver education involves special risks. An instructor who omits an important topic could be in peril, so showing a video such as this one gives the instructor proof that all the most important topics have been covered. Distracted and drunk driving are mentioned first and foremost. Cell phone use is described as particularly risky.

The film’s format is straight out of the 1950’s. Youthful (but carefully not too youthful) sounding music accompanies a young sounding narrator who introduces older authority figures. Young, silent actors illustrate a predictable script. A caffeinated beverage prior to watching is advised.

Stereotyping is a bit over the top. I can’t imagine many teenagers identifying with the pasty white, robotic, nerdy male “good” driver who stares. The black male is an irresponsible “bad” driver who pointedly could die by breathing deadly exhaust fumes. A Hispanic male as well as booze drinking and makeup distracted females are sprinkled in for balance, but men predominate.

This is a totally safe film about driving safety. No dash-cam video is shown. There are no crashes. No one gets pulled over. Dangers, risks and threats are described in an antiseptic way so as not to offend or frighten anyone from driving a car.