Lean on Me (1989)
Lean on Me (1989), a biographical drama directed by John G. Avildsen, tells the story of Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey. By 1987, the school had fallen into disarray as drug abuse and crime ran rampant. Students struggled to pass basic skills tests and even teachers were not safe from gang violence. After Mayor Bottman learns that state administration will take over the school unless at least 75% of students pass the minimum basic skills test, he turns to Dr. Frank Napier for advice. The superintendent suggests hiring Joe Clark, a former teacher at Eastside High who was transferred years ago, as the new principal. Despite his reluctance, the mayor decides to hire Clark for the role.
Dubbed ‘Crazy Joe’, Clark quickly implemented drastic changes, such as removing 300 students who were involved in drug activity or disruptive behavior, initiating initiatives to boost school morale like covering up graffiti and mandating that all students learn the school song under the threat of consequences. When a former student who was expelled for drug use is caught physically assaulting another student, Clark takes the precaution of chaining the school doors during class hours due to limited funds for security measures. Soon, Clark’s efforts begin to show positive results amongst his pupils. He crosses paths with Thomas Sams, a young man who was previously expelled for using crack and pleads for a second chance to return to school.
Date of download: 2015-11-11T17:22:34+00:00
Cast:  Morgan FreemanPrincipal Joe Clark  Beverly ToddMs. Levias  Alan NorthMayor Don Bottman  Robert GuillaumeDr. Frank Napier  Ethan PhillipsMr. Rosenberg  Lynne ThigpenLeonna Barrett |
Lean on Me (1989), a biographical drama directed by John G. Avildsen, tells the story of Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey. By 1987, the school had fallen into disarray as drug abuse and crime ran rampant. Students struggled to pass basic skills tests and even teachers were not safe from gang violence. After Mayor Bottman learns that state administration will take over the school unless at least 75% of students pass the minimum basic skills test, he turns to Dr. Frank Napier for advice. The superintendent suggests hiring Joe Clark, a former teacher at Eastside High who was transferred years ago, as the new principal. Despite his reluctance, the mayor decides to hire Clark for the role.
Dubbed ‘Crazy Joe’, Clark quickly implemented drastic changes, such as removing 300 students who were involved in drug activity or disruptive behavior, initiating initiatives to boost school morale like covering up graffiti and mandating that all students learn the school song under the threat of consequences. When a former student who was expelled for drug use is caught physically assaulting another student, Clark takes the precaution of chaining the school doors during class hours due to limited funds for security measures. Soon, Clark’s efforts begin to show positive results amongst his pupils. He crosses paths with Thomas Sams, a young man who was previously expelled for using crack and pleads for a second chance to return to school.
