Directed by screenwriter Richard LaGravanese and based on the real-life experiences of fledgling California high-school teacher Erin Gruwell, this earnest drama says nothing that hasn't already been said by UP THE DOWN STAIRCASE (1967), TO SIR, WITH LOVE (1967), STAND AND DELIVER (1988), DANGEROUS MINDS (1995) and other films about teachers whose idealism and determination triumph over entrenched educational policy and the deep-rooted problems of disadvantaged students. But it's undeniably affecting, in large part because of Hilary Swank's gawky, intensely chipper performance as quintessential daddy's girl Gruwell, who chooses teaching over law because she believes e...
Released:
2007
Rated:
PG-13
Length:
123 mins