LaGravenese tends to simplify and lean on the melodrama but he tells the stories of the students with compassion, notably Eve (April Lee Hernandez), who has grown up in a war zone of an inner city defined by ethnic boundaries.

| Aug 19, 2023

This film delivered an injection of fresh ideas into a stale genre.

| Original Score: 3.5/5 | Oct 21, 2022

A touching performance from Hilary Swank ensures that Freedom Writers is not just another tripe genre movie.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Nov 3, 2018

The movie benefits from an interesting subject and good acting, I just wish it were more focused and deep.

| Original Score: C+ | Jul 3, 2011

| Original Score: 7/10 | Feb 9, 2011

A richly rewarding film experience that rises to the top of its genre.

| Original Score: B+ | Jan 4, 2008

While it is, like its genre brethren, inspiring and uplifting, Freedom Writers glosses over so much material that it makes the process look too easy.

| Aug 13, 2007

Ironically, the film features almost zero teaching. Despite much pedagogical posturing, it doesn't teach us much, either.

| Original Score: C- | Aug 4, 2007

Worthwhile because of its honesty, because it tells a true story that's worth telling, and because Hilary Swank and company have done it so well.

Full Review | Original Score: 82/100 | Jul 16, 2007

Is this film formulaic? Yes. Does it accomplish what it set out to do? Yes. ... It's certainly not a perfect movie but it does offer many pleasures.

| Original Score: C+ | Jul 14, 2007

Swank's earthiness is key here, and she consistently rises above the story's cliches.

| Jul 10, 2007

The script won't win any stars for originality, it's all put across with enough sincerity to make the corn easy to swallow.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Mar 30, 2007

Hilary Swank is all heart in this uplifting film about kids from the wrong side of the track who become inspired to learn and do the right thing.

| Mar 16, 2007

yet another feel-good teacher flick that will leave most audiences satisfied

Full Review | Original Score: 3/4 | Mar 7, 2007

An Inspirational Teacher Movie that is moving, thought-provoking and succeeds in being genuinely inspiring.

| Original Score: 4/5 | Mar 1, 2007

This is moving stuff, thoughtfully handled and well performed.

| Feb 27, 2007

It may only deserve a C for achievement, but it ranks a B+ for effort.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Feb 27, 2007

You'll be embarrassed, sad, happy then exhausted.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Feb 27, 2007

Has its inspiring moments - especially given the true story - and some tense, dramatic scenes amid the speedy montages of confusing gang action.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Feb 27, 2007

Despite solid work from the engaging cast, there's nothing new here to distinguish Freedom Writers as anything beyond a C+.

| Original Score: 2/5 | Feb 27, 2007