Movies About Teaching

From Peter Weir, starring Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke, Josh Charles
Rated PG

Dead Poets Society is a 1989 American drama film directed by Peter Weir, written by Tom Schulman, and starring Robin Williams. Set in 1959 at the fictional elite conservative Vermont boarding school Welton Academy, it tells the story of an English teacher who inspires his students through his teaching of poetry. The film follows the story of a group of students who come to see their teacher, John Keating (Williams), as an inspirational influence in their lives. Keating encourages his students to look at poetry and literature with a different perspective and to make their lives extraordinary. Through his teachings and non-conformist approach, he challenges them to question their beliefs and to live life to the fullest. The film received critical acclaim upon its release and won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for its writer, Tom Schulman.

From Richard LaGravenese, starring Hilary Swank, Imelda Staunton, Patrick Dempsey, Scott Glenn
Rated PG-13

Freedom Writers is a 2007 film directed by Richard LaGravenese and starring Hilary Swank. It is based on the book The Freedom Writers Diary by teacher Erin Gruwell who wrote the story based on her experiences teaching underprivileged students in Long Beach, California. The story follows Gruwell as she takes a class of at-risk students and, through the power of literature, helps them to discover their worth, find their voice, and ultimately make a difference in their lives. Along the way, Gruwell, her students, and their parents all learn the impact that education can have on the world. Through the use of writing, her students are able to express their feelings and experiences, helping them to overcome their struggles and grow as individuals. Freedom Writers is ultimately a story about hope, the potential for change, and the power of education.

From Hans Weingartner, starring Daniel Brühl, Julia Jentsch, Stipe Erceg, Burghart Klaußner
Rated R

The Edukators is a 2004 German drama film directed by Hans Weingartner. The film follows Jan and Peter, two idealistic young men, who break into wealthy people's homes to rearrange their furniture and leave with a political message. After one of their break-ins, Jan meets Jule, the daughter of the house's owner, and the two begin a relationship. When Jan is blackmailed for one of their escapades, the trio must flee the city and confront the consequences of their actions. The Edukators is a story of youthful rebellion and the limits of idealism. It examines the power of economic disparities and the struggle between idealism and pragmatism. Through its characters, the film criticizes the status quo and its unequal distribution of wealth. Ultimately, the film suggests that meaningful changes must start from within.

From Ryan Fleck, starring Ryan Gosling, Anthony Mackie, Shareeka Epps, Jeff Lima
Rated R

From Mike Leigh, starring Sally Hawkins, Alexis Zegerman, Samuel Roukin, Elliot Cowan
Rated R

From Danny DeVito, starring Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman, Mara Wilson, Embeth Davidtz
Rated PG

From John N. Smith, starring Michelle Pfeiffer, George Dzundza, Courtney B. Vance, Robin Bartlett
Rated R