Freedom Writers
It is 1994 in Long Beach. The idealistic Erin Gruwell just started her first job as a freshman and sophomore English teacher at Woodrow Wilson High School. Two years ago, Woodrow Wilson High School had implemented an integration program. Many of the teachers have lost their jobs due to integration. The school’s academic reputation has plummeted and many students will not be able to read or graduate. Erin, who chose the school for its integration program intentionally, is not prepared for her classroom’s nature. Her students are governed by strict moral codes that protect their families at all costs. Many people are involved in gangs, and most have known someone who has died from gang violence. Latinos are enraged by the Cambodians, who also hate blacks. Ms. Gruwell is the only one that students dislike more than her. Ms. Gruwell is the only person that students hate more than Erin. It is not until Erin gives students the assignment to write a daily journal, which she will not grade and won’t allow them to read unless requested by her, that they openly talk to her. Erin is trying harder to get the resources she needs to be a good teacher, which often means that she has to work second or third jobs to afford them. However, Erin seems to encounter more resistance from some of her fellow teachers, including Margaret Campbell (section head), who believes regulations are a waste and Brian Gelford who wants to protect his privilege to teach senior honors classes. Erin is also finding that Scott Casey’s teaching career has been putting strain on their marriage. He seems lost in his idealistic life. –Huggo
Director: Richard LaGravenese
Actors: April Lee Hernandez, Hilary Swank, Imelda Staunton, Mario, Patrick Dempsey, Robert Wisdom, Scott Glenn
Country: Germany, United States
