UNIVERSITY OF ANTIQUE

College of Teacher Education

Graduate Studies
Sibalom, Antique

MOVIE REVIEW: FREEDOM WRITERS

Submitted to:

AIDA RICARZE, Ph.D

Faculty Member
College of Teacher Education
Graduate Studies

In Partial Fulfillment
of the requirements in the course
ED M 101
(Philosophy of Education)

Submitted by:

ROBBIE LIZA E. CAYTILES- Eng-1A

2nd SEMESTER
2021-2022
 UNIVERSITY OF ANTIQUE
College of Teacher Education
Graduate Studies
Sibalom, Antique

The disparity in the workplace can be both dangerous and challenging to

overcome. In a multi-cultural society, dealing with the unfamiliar is one of the most

challenging aspects of daily life. Family members are held in high esteem, whereas

strangers are treated with suspicion and hostility. Young people, especially those from

diverse racial and gang backgrounds, share similar concerns, especially in large cities.

Outsiders are fiercely guarded, yet people who don't know them are violently hostile.

The Freedom Writers have a history like this. This film will test your mettle if you're up

for it.

At Wilson High in Long Beach, Erin Gruwell begins her first day of teaching with

pupils outraged about living in a war zone with regular street killings. They despise

learning and the educational system. Margaret Campbell Erin's department head is a

traditional educator with 30 years of experience. In light of everything she faces, she

questions the 23-year-idealism old's zeal. The pupils are grouped by race (African

Americans, Latinos, Asians) and gang affiliation in the playground and classrooms. Erin

uses their language and cultural artifacts to connect with her kids, but they see her as

simply another white person seeking to convert them. Nothing works until she

confiscates an ugly racial cartoon of an African American student. She compares it to

the Nazis' anti-Semitic artwork. Erin is surprised to learn that her students are unaware

of the Holocaust and Jewish oppression. She reaches the Nazis like a gang guarding

their own. Erin then gives pupils blank notebooks and urges them to write in them every

day. She won't grade them and will only read them if they agree. For many of them, this
 UNIVERSITY OF ANTIQUE
College of Teacher Education
Graduate Studies
Sibalom, Antique

is their first opportunity to express themselves. When she has them play the "Line

Game" they learn they have many common feelings.

She then assigns them to study The Diary of Anne Frank and visit the Los

Angeles Holocaust Museum. Intolerance, hatred, and violence are discussed over

dinner with survivors. Erin's most effective program is Miep Gies, the Dutch woman who

harbored the Franks. But she tells them they are all heroes, not just those who wrote

her letters. Erin's resolve to change her students' views and opportunities are tested.

She works part-time to buy books and pay for trips. Scott is becoming increasingly

annoyed by her work ethic. Her idealistic father struggles to embrace her dedication to

teaching. In the end, Erin's efforts pay off as the students build a creative community of

sharing. Eva is a feisty Latina, Andre is a tough African-American, Marcus is an African-

American street kid, and Sindy is a Cambodian refugee camp kid.

As long as I live, this film will hold a particular place in my heart. Since my first

year in college, this film has been shown at my alma mater every year. As a result,

there are four reasons why I'm interested in this film. The movie's protagonist is the first.

In this film, which is based on a true story, we see the racial tensions in America at the

time. Their battle to survive and maintain their group is depicted in this video. 'The 203

Room' For Erin also represents her constant support and effort to help kids better

understand their own lives and the world around them. The director must create a

compelling focal character to create an authentic feeling that depicts both a gangster

and a loving instructor. The second reason is because of the story's narrative structure.

The director appropriately depicted the event. In this film, the racial tensions of the
 UNIVERSITY OF ANTIQUE
College of Teacher Education
Graduate Studies
Sibalom, Antique

Rodney King riots are displayed in the opening scene. As a result, this film shows a

student's negative experiences. Next, the video focuses on how the pupils' perspectives

alter due to new experiences. In a way, it makes this film feel authentic.

The actors' and actresses' performances are the third factors. This movie's action

is incredibly enticing. April Lee Hernandez, who plays Eva, does a commendable job.

She embodies the gang's leader, a woman who fights with other criminals regularly.

Hillary Swank's portrayal of Erin, a nice, bright, and well-educated woman, is equally

impressive. Marcus, played by Jason Finn, was the other good performance. He leads a

genuine gangster, and he has a lot of sensitive feelings. For the actors and actresses to

perform well, the director must select the proper role for them.

The final reason is because of the topic. This film reflects on the racial tensions in

society. This film depicts the racial tensions between Latinos, Asians, and people of

African descent in the United States. It's safe to say that nearly every student has had

an unpleasant experience because of the racial disparity. They had to say goodbye to

their loved ones and friends. Students with this disease have a poor sense of morality

and are forced to stick together as a group.

Whether you're an aspiring teacher or a current educator, this film is a must-see.

So much heart and soul went into making this film, and it shows in the story of how one

woman's actions changed the lives of her students for the better.

Freedom Writers Diary by Erin Gruwell and the Freedom Writers is based on this

uplifting and thought-provoking film. This story honors a teacher who had a profound

impact on her students' lives. Aside from celebrating diversity's ability to bring people
 UNIVERSITY OF ANTIQUE
College of Teacher Education
Graduate Studies
Sibalom, Antique

together, it also recognizes the power of breaking down barriers that separate people. In

order for the world to go forward, it is imperative that we examine the spiritual

significance of oneness and the beauty that can emerge from the respect for diversity. I

give this film a perfect 10! For educators, this is one of the most uplifting films.

Title: Freedom Writers

Director: Richard LaGravanese

Main Actors: Hilary Swank

Imelda Staunton

Patrick Dempsey

Length: 2 hours & 3 minutes

Year: 2007

Rating: PG-13