Freedom Writers

2007 • 122 minutes

About this movie

Hilary Swank stars in this story about a teacher in a racially divided school who gives her students what they've always needed - a voice. Swank plays Erin Gruwell, the real-life teacher at Long Beach's Wilson High who inspired her students to overcome the gangs that divided them and the education system that forgot them. Based on the book The Freedom Writers Diary and supported by a cast of first-time actors who drew from their actual experiences on the street, Gruwell teaches us all an important lesson about tolerance and trust.

Ratings and reviews

This could become true if in every school there was a teacher who listen. I have met teachers who care and ones who don't give a dam. In order for a school system to work we should be on the same page and stop the tug of war with children lives but how do you weed out the roots of a bad teacher when they know how to hide and play the system. Everyone would have to stand on the side of the rope pulling that teacher to the mud puddle but when no one tries changes won't take place leaving us all in a puddle.

This is literally my favorite movie ever. I must have watched it the first time when I was around 10 years old and it became very eye-opening and educational. It made me into the young activist I am today. There is nothing wrong with this movie unless you're a racist with an incredibly fragile ego. I would recommend this movie to everyone, even preteens. There may be swearing and sexual language, but most tv that kids are being exposed to today aren't much better.

This is my favorite movie, it's so inspiring. Mrs. Gruel is one of many teacher's out there that cares about her students. I love how she helped them realize that we're all the same no matter what and we can succeed if we try, we can tell our story so other's can listen. This movie brings tears to my eye's it's such a great movie I highly recommend it!