Being a teacher is a truly inspiring job in a community, and that’s why teachers, principals, and schools often take the spotlight in popular movies. Whether you’re part of a school, considering it as a career, or simply enjoy watching movies about education, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best movies about teachers and the essence of teaching.
Movies have a special way of showcasing the challenges and triumphs of educators, making them relatable and engaging for audiences. Our selection includes heartwarming stories, humorous anecdotes, and powerful moments that celebrate the impact teachers have on students and communities. From classrooms to school corridors, these films offer a glimpse into the world of education, highlighting the dedication and passion that teachers bring to their work.
So, whether you’re seeking inspiration, entertainment, or a blend of both, these movies about teachers and teaching are sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the vital role educators play in shaping the future.
Best Movies About Teachers and Teaching
1. Like Stars on Earth (Taare Zameen Par)
With an impressive IMDb Rating of 8.4 and an audience score of 96% on Rotten Tomatoes, “Taare Zameen Par,” also known as “Like Stars on Earth” in English, stands out as one of the finest films portraying the impact of teachers and teaching.
The heartwarming Hindi-language movie revolves around eight-year-old Ishaan Awasthi, often misunderstood as a lazy troublemaker. In reality, Ishaan is dyslexic and possesses a vivid imagination.
The narrative takes a positive turn when a new art teacher invests time in understanding Ishaan, transforming his entire school experience. “Like Stars on Earth” beautifully illustrates the profound difference a compassionate teacher can make in a child’s life, emphasizing the power of understanding and support in overcoming challenges.
2. The Browning Version (1951)
The Browning Version, a British film from 1951, features actors Michael Redgrave, Jean Kent, and Nigel Patrick. The story unfolds on the final workday of Andrew Crocker-Harris, a Latin teacher largely disliked by his students. During this time, a student named Taplow presents him with a farewell gift, triggering Mr. Crocker-Harris to delve into reflections about his past and ponder his future.
This 1951 British film, The Browning Version, holds an IMDb rating of 8.2 and an impressive Rotten Tomatoes audience score of 95%. The narrative revolves around Andrew Crocker-Harris, a Latin teacher, portrayed by Michael Redgrave, who experiences a transformative day as he receives a parting gift from a student named Taplow. This simple yet profound gesture prompts Mr. Crocker-Harris to revisit his past and contemplate the path ahead, making for a compelling and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
3. Dead Poets Society
In 1989, a renowned film titled “Dead Poets Society” earned widespread acclaim. With an IMDb rating of 8.1 and an impressive 92% Rotten Tomatoes audience score, the movie features prominent actors like Robin Williams, Ethan Hawke, Josh Charles, and Lara Flynn Boyle.
The storyline revolves around John Keating, an unconventional teacher at a boarding school, who employs poetry as a tool to motivate his students. The film not only resonated with audiences but also garnered prestigious awards, including the Academy Award for Writing (Original Screenplay) and the BAFTA Award for Best Film. “Dead Poets Society” stands as one of the movies that show how teachers can make use of their position to inspire students to achieve the extraordinary.
Also Read: 15 Best Online Degrees for Teachers 2024
4. The Chorus
The Chorus, also known as Les Choristes in French, tells the uplifting story of a new teacher at a troubled boys’ boarding school. The IMDb Rating for this inspiring film is 7.9, and the Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score stands at an impressive 92%.
The movie revolves around the teacher’s discovery that through music, he can make a positive impact on the lives of the boys in the poorly managed school. Les Choristes received acclaim at the 2005 César Awards, France’s equivalent of the Academy Awards.
The film secured victories in categories such as Best Original Score, Best Sound, and Best Composer, showcasing its excellence in cinematic craftsmanship.
5. Goodbye, Mr Chips
This 1939 classic movie, “Goodbye, Mr. Chips,” featuring Robert Donat and Greer Garson, holds an IMDb rating of 7.9 and a Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score of 71%. The film follows the journey of Mr. Chips, an elderly teacher and former headmaster of a boarding school, as he reflects on his career and personal experiences spanning several decades.
Robert Donat’s outstanding performance in the film earned him an Oscar and the movie received nominations for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay. “Goodbye, Mr. Chips” is a timeless story that resonates with audiences, showcasing the impact of a dedicated educator’s life and the lasting impressions he leaves behind.
6. October Sky
In the film “October Sky,” Homer Hickam, a young boy with a coal miner father, discovers a newfound passion for rocketry after witnessing the launch of the first Sputnik satellite. Homer’s journey into the world of rockets is guided by his inspirational teacher, Miss Riley.
The story unfolds with a stellar cast featuring Jake Gyllenhaal in the role of Homer and Laura Dern portraying the supportive Miss Riley. If you are looking for movies that show how teachers can inspire students to student, then this movie should be on your list.
The IMDb rating for “October Sky” stands at 7.8, indicating positive reception, while the Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score is an impressive 88%. The film captures the essence of determination, inspiration, and the pursuit of dreams as Homer navigates the challenges of his background to reach for the stars.
Through engaging performances and a compelling narrative, “October Sky” invites viewers to join the journey of a young boy reaching for the skies against all odds.
7. Not One Less
Not One Less, a 1999 drama, is set in a faraway mountain village in China. The story revolves around a 13-year-old girl who is entrusted with the role of a substitute teacher when the village teacher has to leave for a month. Facing a unique challenge, the young girl is promised 10 extra yuan if all the students attend school in the teacher’s absence.
In this heartwarming tale, the students find themselves compelled to collaborate when the troublemaker of the class embarks on a journey to the bustling city. The movie explores themes of teamwork, determination, and the pursuit of a common goal in the face of challenges.
With an IMDb rating of 7.7 and an impressive 90% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, Not One Less is a touching narrative that unfolds in a simple mountain village, revealing the power of unity and determination among its young characters.
Also Read: 30 Examples of Feedback for Teachers from Parents
8. To Sir With Love
To Sir With Love is a heartwarming 1967 movie featuring Sidney Poitier and Judy Geeson. The film follows Mark Thackeray, an optimistic young teacher, as he navigates the challenges of educating a group of lively students from London’s East End slums. Mark’s journey unfolds with humour and compassion, highlighting the transformative power of education and genuine connections.
Director James Clavell’s impactful storytelling earned the film praise, leading to his nomination for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Motion Pictures by the Directors Guild of America.
With an IMDb rating of 7.7 and an impressive Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score of 88%, To Sir With Love continues to be one of the best all time movies about teachers. Furthermore, the movies continues to resonate with audiences, leaving a lasting impression with its timeless message of understanding, respect, and the importance of education in shaping young lives.
9. Freedom Writers
Freedom Writers is a well-received movie with an IMDb rating of 7.6 and an 87% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film features Hilary Swank, Patrick Dempsey, and Imelda Staunton and revolves around a young teacher who joins a high school where students face various challenges.
In the movie, the teacher, played by Hilary Swank, makes a significant impact on the at-risk students. She teaches them the importance of tolerance, encourages them to apply themselves, and motivates them to pursue education beyond high school. Throughout the narrative, the characters undergo personal growth, and the film highlights the transformative power of education.
Notably, Freedom Writers received recognition by winning the Humanitas Prize in the Feature Film Category in 2007. The movie’s success is attributed to its compelling storyline, powerful performances, and the positive message it conveys about the potential for change through education. It is one of the best movies that has ever been written about teachers and teaching.
10. The Ron Clark Story
The Ron Clark Story is a TV movie with an IMDb rating of 7.6 and an 85% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. It narrates the true-life journey of Ron Clark, a teacher who leaves his small town to work in one of the nation’s most challenging schools. Matthew Perry portrays the lead character in the film.
The movie gained widespread acclaim, earning nominations at prestigious events like the Screen Actors Guild Awards and Directors Guild of America Awards. Matthew Perry’s portrayal even earned him a nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor at the Primetime Emmy Awards. The Ron Clark Story resonates as an inspiring tale of dedication and resilience in the face of educational challenges.
11. The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie
The movie “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie,” released in 1969 and featuring the renowned Maggie Smith, tells the story of a Scottish schoolteacher. Maggie Smith, a legendary actress, plays the lead role.
The plot revolves around the teacher’s unconventional and overly romantic notions about love and life, which clash with the conservative beliefs of the school’s headmistress, leading to various challenges. The film received acclaim, earning an IMDb rating of 7.6 and an impressive 85% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
At the 1970 Academy Awards, Maggie Smith’s outstanding performance earned her the prestigious Oscar for Best Actress in a Leading Role. The movie captures the prime years of Miss Jean Brodie, showcasing both the brilliance of Maggie Smith’s acting and the intriguing clash of ideologies within the school’s environment.
12. The Great Debaters
In the movie “The Great Debaters,” Melvin B. Tolson, a teacher in 1935, motivates his students at Texas’s Wiley College to create the school’s inaugural debate team.
The narrative unfolds as the team courageously takes on the challenge of debating Harvard. Starring Denzel Washington and Forest Whitaker, the film earned acclaim, receiving a Best Picture award at the 2007 African-American Film Critics Association.
The IMDb rating for this inspiring true story stands at 7.5, while the Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score reflects an impressive 86%. “The Great Debaters” showcases the power of determination and intellect, portraying the journey of a group of students who defy the odds to make their mark in the world of debate.
13. Lean On Me
“Lean On Me” is a movie from 1989 with an IMDb rating of 7.4 and an 85% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film tells the story of Joe Clark, a passionate educator chosen to be the principal of a struggling inner-city school. In this impactful role, Morgan Freeman plays Principal Clark alongside Beverly Todd, Lynn Thigpen, and Michael Beach.
Todd and Freeman were honoured with Image Awards for their outstanding performances in the movie. “Lean On Me” captures the journey of Principal Clark as he takes on the challenges of transforming a neglected school into a place of learning and growth.
14. Blackboard Jungle
“Blackboard Jungle” is a film from 1955 with an IMDb rating of 7.4 and a Rotten Tomatoes audience score of 78%. The story revolves around Richard Dadier, an English teacher facing challenges at a tough inner-city school where he recently started working. Dadier, played by Glenn Ford, is determined to hold onto his job despite the disruptive students and unsupportive colleagues.
The film also features Anne Francis as Dadier’s wife, Anne. As the plot unfolds, viewers witness Dadier’s struggles to maintain order and make a positive impact on his student’s lives in the face of adversity. The movie explores themes of resilience, dedication, and the difficulties of teaching in a challenging environment.
15. Stand and Deliver Movie
Last but not least on this list of the best movies about teachers and teaching is Stand and Deliver. The film Stand and Deliver was released in 1988 and revolves around high school teacher Jaime Escalante. In the movie, Escalante, portrayed by Edward James Olmos, motivates his group of students, who are at risk of dropping out, to grasp the complexities of calculus. The cast also includes Estelle Harris and Mark Phelan. The film, based on a true story, received positive reviews, earning a 7.3 IMDb rating and a 79% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Stand and Deliver is a tale of determination and inspiration, illustrating how a dedicated teacher can make a significant impact on students’ lives. The story follows Escalante’s journey as he strives to uplift his students, challenging them to overcome obstacles and achieve academic success against all odds. With its compelling narrative and notable performances, Stand and Deliver continues to be a timeless portrayal of the transformative power of education.