Classroom Hollywood

Cover of Blackboard Jungle

Since I filter much of the world through the never-ending reel of movie references scrolling across my brain, you can imagine how many classroom scenes have flickered in my mind during my teaching career. We love a good story of inspiration, and classrooms provide plenty of those where lives are literally saved by mentors and leaders who challenge the perspective of young individuals.

Hollywood has pumped out a fair share of educational epics, but the groundbreaking movie on classroom angst appeared in 1955. Blackboard Jungle stars a great cast including Glenn Ford, Anne Francis, and a young Sidney Poitier. Another key player is Vic Morrow who died in a helicopter crash while filming a Twilight Zone movie in 1982. And I bet you wouldn’t even recognize little Jamie Farr.

Blackboard Jungle also launched the rock n roll revolution in America. The film features Bill Haley & The Comets and their hit song Rock Around The Clock. Teenagers in the 1950s got crazy (especially in England) during the performance version of the song in the middle of the movie. Mini riots broke out in theaters!

If you’ve ever watched classic films from that era, you’ll notice how far ahead of the times Blackboard Jungle really was. I definitely recommend it, but I also figure most of you have not seen it, so let’s talk about films that many folks have watched.

First off, let me tell you what movies are not included in this week’s poll. These teacher movies could form a field all their own, yet I went with other options.

My favorite movie not on this week’s list is The Emperor’s Club (Full Screen Edition) starring Kevin Kline. If you liked Dead Poet’s Society, you’ll like The Emperor’s Club. Great film. Not enough people know about it.

I’m sure some of you would also expect me to include Stand and Deliver (1988) and Dangerous Minds (1995). Sorry. Nothing against either of those movies except space here.

So what are you picking from? Glad you asked.

Freedom Writers (2007)–I’m not sure how many of you have seen this Hilary Swank film, but you won’t be disappointed. This movie is based on a real school and teacher during the Rodney King riots in LA. The actual work of the students is in print and bookstores today.

Dead Poets Society (1989)–Carpe diem baby. This one made a big impact on me. I saw it when I was a young teenager and for the first time dreamed of being a teacher.

Finding Forrester (2000)–Not only do we have a cool mentor-student relationship, but we also get Sean Connery (in his last memorable role), and a story about writing! I’m a big fan.

Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995)–The best reward for a noble educator has to be students who return later in life to express gratitude to an teacher who made an impact on their life. This movie explores the sacrifices we make and what really matters in the end. Great stuff. Also, my mom loves it.

Lean On Me (1989)–Morgan Freeman was picking up steam heading into 1989 when he absolutely exploded. In that year he starred in Glory, Driving Miss Daisy, and Lean On Me. The latter tells the story of a tough leader, Principal Joe Clark, who does whatever it takes to restore sanity in a mad world. With all the current controversy about unruly students and the handcuffs placed on teachers, I often wonder what Joe Clark would’ve done.

Which flick gets the passing grade?

The Friday Flick Faceoff features films that share a common thread. Cast your vote anyway you like and don’t worry if you’ve seen all the movies or not. Love to hear why you picked what you picked though!

Find me on Twitter under my new handle @ClayMorganPA!