studioAT Matthew Perry shines as Ron Clark in this wonderful film. He truly captures the character and his rapport with the kids playing his students is wonderful.Perry gives us as an audience all the elements of his personality that we fell in love with in Friends while also being able to show off his skill as a dramatic actor. He plays both the comedic and dramatic scenes equally well.Films like this are nothing new but it is the simple story behind this one combined with the charm of Perry that allows it to stand out from the others.It is a truly wonderful film that is well worth a watch.

superlo This is the true story of Ron Clark, a teacher in rural North Carolina, who had a dream to teach in the toughest area of New York City. The dream wasn't just for himself, it was for that indifferent young boys and girls, against great odds, could become successful in life if only they could believe it was possible. Not only were the odds great against any of his students going beyond elementary school, the odds seemed even greater against Ron Clark making it through his first year of teaching in the toughest school in Harlem. But he had a dream and he was 'naive' enough and idealistic enough to believe he could reach that goal. While optimism and belief are essential, it is also helpful to have talent and Ron Clark is a very gifted and creative teacher. He was willing to experiment with various ways to reach this rebellious kids who wanted nothing to do with school or him. If making a fool of himself trying to 'double dutch' jump rope would get their attention, then so be it. The kids were more important than his ego. His relationships with parents should be an example for any teacher who really wants to make a difference with their students. This is one of those truly inspirational films and stories that comes along once in a great while. Not only has he helped students reach their potential but he has written a best selling book of classroom rules called THE ESSENTIAL 55 for teachers. We may not all have the same talents as Ron Clark but we can all be inspired to use what we have to the best of our ability and for the benefit of others. Put this at the top of the list. Unfortunately, it's OOP and somewhat expensive to purchase but readily available as a rental.

mangospider If you've seen Ron Clark on Oprah, you know what an inspiration he is. This movie does absolutely NO JUSTICE to his story. In fact, the hack writers spend so much time shoe-horning his story into a clichéd structure, it's practically unrecognizable. I don't even know where to begin. First of all, Ron Clark's energy is the most amazing thing about him and Matthew Perry, while a fine actor in the right situation, is absolutely 100% miscast. For real, it should be someone like Sean Hayes or...I don't know, someone more electric. And those kids? Were such clichés. And, I don't know what movie the kid playing Shameika was even in. Basic Instinct or something. The story offered no insight into what actually made Ron Clark's teaching a success. By all appearances, he should have been an utter failure. It was deep conviction and unfailing energy that allowed him to succeed. When I heard this movie was being made, I was so excited for it. It couldn't be more of a disappointment.

Syl Why would Ron Clarke leave a comfortable job in the SOuth to go up to NEw York City in the first place is a good question. He wants to make a difference. Matthew Perry best known for playing Chandler Bing on Friends is very good in this role as the teacher who wants to make good. He goes to New York City in hopes of making a difference. For starters, he gets and prefers to work in one of the poor sections of the city, Inner Harlem. In the meantime, he has to work so he gets a job at a theme restaurant where the other workers are aspiring actors and he's an aspiring teacher. Once he takes a job of teaching, he is in for a challenge. Since I am planning to become a teacher myself, he does at least visit the students' homes before getting in the classroom. THere are some awkward cheesy moments in this film but it's still worth watching. The Ron Clark Story is true and suitable family viewing. It also shows Ron's persistence in achieving the unthinkable with the forgotten students. When they get to go see a Broadway show, their faces light up. Imagine, they live north of Broadway and most have never seen a show. He helps boost their spirits and shows that faith, trust, and hard work can make a difference. If only all our schools had teachers like Ron Clark.