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This movie was great. Now it is the usual kind of outsider adult wanting to make a difference in young people's lives 'based on a true story' type of movie. But for me one aspect made it not the usual old inspiring and predictable story, and that is the use of writing and how through one's own personal thoughts can show how everyone has a story to tell, not necessarily by being creativily gifted, but by our own unique experiences and way we view our life. It is set in an inner city high school classroom that has segregated groups of friends of "their own kind" and one lone white kid who was able to add some laughs that white suburbanites can probably uncomfortably relate to. The main form the teacher uses to connect with her kids, and for the kids to eventually connect with each other is through writing.

A side note: I am fascinated by how words on paper can move so much, often so much more so than spoken word which has the aspects of audible tone, volume, and feeling. Is it because we have to use our imagination more and we have to give life to characters? Is it because the thoughts that come out via pen or keyboard can be much more revealing of our inner feelings than we are willing to share by conversing? Is it because we are willing to more easily let our guards down when not dealing with issues in-person?

Back to movie. The reading of books that they can relate to their daily lives (i.e. The Diary of Anne Frank), a trip to the Holocaust Museum, and in particular a daily journal turns out to be the keys to getting inside the kids heads. These are the beginning of life altering events for everyone in the movie whether it be dealing with personal demons, conflict at home, or ethical questions in the world of these kids that has up until now, never extended out of the gang ridden streets in which they live. The daily writings of the kids reveal enough tragic information it inspires this teacher to go above and beyond the call of duty when others have given up, including the kids themselves. The turn-around in the lives of all involved makes the movie inspiring and at times a tear-jerker.