#6: Freedom Writers

Freedom Writers is possibly my favorite English/Writing/School movie. It's one of the most inspiring films I've seen. Listen, I'm not going to say the directing is the greatest but the idea of Freedom Writers is brilliant. Even better, it's based on a true story. The first time I saw Freedom Writers, it pretty much brought tears to my eyes because it was unlike any other film and it was just a fun film to follow. The characters really give this movie a whole new way of looking at life. Hilary Swank is unbelievable as usual; this one probably one of my favorite movies of hers. Million Dollar Baby is also at the top of that list, but this was just a movie where she seemed so in touch with the characters, genuinely emotional and comedic at the same time. I thought this movie had tons of potential, although it didn't get much hype after release in theaters. Overall, an amazingly inspiring movie so my suggestion is most definitely go see it.

Taylor is a Journalism major, so watching him see the movie was great. I got the feeling he might like it even more than me. And again, a purely uplifting and inspiring film.

Overall rating: 8.4 / 10

- Josh Berg

In a word: Amazing. In another: Inspiring.

Freedom Writers doesn't have tricky chronology or the direction of an industry prodigy, but it has a hard, subtle, mood. Hilary Swank enters as an underprepared, unexperienced teacher who has only hope on her side. From there, the movie takes a series of predictable turns. Predictability hasn't been a theme in our movies so far, but this one nearly defines it.

Despite its predictability and near-Disney levels of cheese, I really liked Freedom Writers. I'm a sucker for an inspirational story, and one about the power of teaching, and one about the power of writing. So this movie drilled through all of my soft spots and forced me to feel fear, joy, and sadness right on cue. If you hate predictability and don't get suckered by inspirational, lovable characters doing inspirational and lovable things, dont watch this movie. If you do, watch it and love it.

Overall Rating: 7.9 / 10

 - Taylor Dobbs