Freedom Writers (2007)

O An excellent must-see
X Good rental choice
O Mediocre
O Rent something else

Review by Jason Pyles / April 17, 2007

“Freedom Writers” is a good movie: It’s surprisingly poignant, emotionally charged, involving and is an overall feel-good film.

Inspired by a 1999 publication titled “The Freedom Writers Diary,” this movie takes place about two years after the Rodney King incident and the resultant riots in Los Angeles.

Erin Gruwell (Hilary Swank) is a first-year teacher for Woodrow Wilson High School’s freshman English class. Her daunting task is to teach a racially warring class of 14- and 15-year-olds comprised of Latinos, Cambodians, African Americans and one Caucasian. Most of these kids are involved in gangs and have criminal records.

But Gruwell is determined to “make a difference” by believing in her students, teaching them the horrors of the Holocaust and having them tell their own stories by daily journal writing. In addition to battling the racism among those in her classroom, Gruwell also has to deal with a mostly apathetic administration, a skeptical father and an unsupportive husband.

This edited version still portrays some gang violence and has a scene of mild sexual innuendo, but the moving scenes relating to the Holocaust are particularly valuable. The movie’s predominantly ‘90s soundtrack and voice-over narration are exceptional touches.

I recommend this rental.

Directed by Richard LaGravenese
Hilary Swank / Patrick Dempsey / Scott Glenn
123 min. Drama
(Original MPAA rating: PG-13)
Edited version age recommendation: 13 and up

DVD release date: April 17, 2007
Copyright 2007.
JP0083 : 199