T is for Teachers in Film

We all know that teachers are the cornerstone of our society. They are often underappreciated and underpaid, but sometimes there’s a movie dedicated to just how great teachers actually are. Here are a few of my favorites.

 

To Sir, with Love: Classic film staring Sidney Poitier. It was one of the first movies with the formula teacher winning over the unruly inner city students, but it works so well partly because Poitier’s performance. If you like inspirational films and haven’t seen this one yet, it’s worth checking out.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dead Poets Society: One of my favorite films staring Robin Williams. I tear up whenever I think of

the end. “O’ Captain! My Captain!” Love it!

 

 

 

 

Good Will Hunting: Another Robin Williams film. I know the professor was the one who discovers Matt Damon’s character’s brilliance, but it was Robin Williams’ character who used his wit, charm, compassion and patience to teach Matt Damon. Great film!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lean on Me: Love this film! I have an aunt who’s a principle in a rough school. I often call her the female Joe Clark. “They used to call me Crazy Joe, now they can call me Batman!” So many quotable lines in this film.

 

 

 

 

 

Fast Times at Ridgemont High: Okay, so I know this isn’t really an inspirational teaching film, but if you’ve seen this movie, you know that Sean Penn’s fantastic portrayal of stoner Spicoli was only made better by his interactions with the hard-assed teacher, Mr. Hand. I wish I’d had to nerve to order a pizza to class and then when questioned about it say, “Learning about Cuba, and having some food.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have you seen any of these films? If so, which one is your favorite of the list? How much do you love teachers? As always, let me know if I’ve missed your favorite from the list!