As we go deeper into the Fall semester, there’s nothing that can motivate us amidst the first exams and upcoming papers quite like a good movie. Check out our list of films featuring our favorite instructors, school heroes, and class clowns.
Dead Poets Society (1989)
In this film, Robin Williams takes on one of his most beloved roles as John Keating, a schoolteacher who inspires his rebellious group of students to achieve their full potential. It’s a stirring yet rambunctious masterpiece that will move even the coldest of headmasters and most begrudging of students.
Rating: PG
Where You Can Watch: Amazon Instant
The School of Rock (2003)
These students have what it takes to rock in this Jack Black feature about an ex-rocker turned substitute teacher. This off-color educational comedy set in prep school combines rip-roaring humor with uplifting messages about independence and following your own path even against the tide.
Rating: PG-13
Where You Can Watch: Amazon Instant
October Sky (1999)
Based on a novel by the same name, this underrated classic stars a young Jake Gyllenhaal as Homer Hickam, an aspiring rocket scientist, motivated by his instructor to – quite literally – reach for the stars. Like most of Gyllenhaal’s works, it is a lovingly made film that will leave a lasting impression in the mind of every viewer.
Rating: PG
Where You Can Watch: Amazon Instant
Good Will Hunting (1997)
This is a drama about a math genius that must dig deep inside himself to find the motivation to utilize his mind-blowing skills. Here, Williams once again plays an unforgettable mentor: Dr. Sean Maguire. Renowned as one of the best education-themed films of all time, it is a must-see for any college student or instructor alike.
Rating: R
Where You Can Watch: Netflix, Amazon Instant
The Miracle Worker (1962)
The inspiring classic about Helen Keller’s teacher and how she helped her conquer her disability against all odds, it is a moving and momentous film that has inspired people of all ages and from all walks of life for over fifty years.
Rating: NR
Where You Can Watch: YouTube, Amazon Instant
Goodbye Mr. Chips (1969)
Although this heartfelt musical is less about education and more about romance, it’s still a memorable film about a school instructor falling in love with someone who teaches him to see the world through new eyes. Yes, students: the greatest lesson we may indeed learn from this film is that our teachers do indeed have lives outside the classroom.
Rating: G
Where You Can Watch: Amazon Instant
Finding Forrester (2000)
An aspiring poet meets with renowned and reclusive William Forrester. Thought to be based on the career of Catcher in the Rye author J.D. Salinger, the fictional account combines a sense of adventure with the very real possibility of becoming one of the greatest authors of all time through intelligence, will, and talent despite your past.
Rating: PG-13
Where You Can Watch: Netflix, Amazon Instant
The Great Debaters (2007)
This dramatic movie starring Academy Award winners Denzel Washington and Forest Whitaker is not only about inspiration and self-improvement in the world of academics, but in the world of a Southwestern America torn by the Great Depression and segregation. As a team of small town college students take on a debate competition, they stir the hearts and minds of those around them.
Rating: PG-13
Where You Can Watch: Amazon Instant
To Sir, With Love (1967)
Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’s Sydney Poitier plays a teacher – the original John Keating – who is presented with a tough bunch of students, this time in 1960s London. Can he find the strength to tackle such an amibitious project? Or will his work in The London Projects prove too big a task? A moving film on youth, life, and humanity itself, this film captures the heart and touches the soul.
Rating: NR
Where You Can Watch: YouTube
Mr. Holland’s Opus (1995)
This is an emotionally complex, yet ultimately satisfying piece that follows the life of composer Glenn Holland. Music lovers and movie lovers alike will be taken in by this quirky and clever critically-acclaimed 1990s drama that goes beyond the classroom and into the heart, soul, and struggle of a single teacher and the many lives he inspired.
Rating: PG
Where You Can Watch: YouTube