Film 101: Lean on Me

Our monthly film series, led by resident film expert Jake Cohen, will feature a diverse range of international film styles, themes, and directors. Discussion will follow each film. Jake's selection for February is Lean on Me.

In this fact-based film, a New Jersey superintendent, Dr. Frank Napier (Robert Guillaume), watches helplessly as East Side High becomes the lowest-ranked school in the state. With nowhere else to turn, Dr. Napier enlists maverick ex-teacher Joe Clark (Morgan Freeman) to take over as principal of the declining school. Unfortunately for Clark, before he can focus on improving the student body's state exam scores, he has to somehow rid the school of its gang and narcotics problems.

Biography Drama, 1964, 1 hr 35 min

*Movies may be subject to change. Please check the Motion Picture Association of America rating for viewing guidelines.