Lean On Me (1989): Transforming Lives Through Tough Love and Tenacity

 Submitted By:-

Name : R.PRANAAV SANJITH

Register Number : 2022506130

Department : Information Technology

Semester : 4/8

LEAN ON ME PLOTS AND STORY:

In 1987, the once idyllic Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey, has deteriorated due to drug abuse and crime running rampant throughout the school. The majority of students cannot pass basic skills testing, and even the teachers are not safe from gang violence.

Mayor Bottman learns that the school will be turned over to state administration unless 75% of the students can pass the minimum basic skills test. He consults with school superintendent Dr. Frank Napier, who suggests they hire Joe Clark, a former teacher at Eastside High who was forcibly transferred years before, as the new school principal. Reluctantly, the mayor hires Clark.

Known as "Crazy Joe", Clark's immediate radical changes include expelling 300 students identified as drug dealers or abusers and troublemakers, instituting programs to improve school spirit including painting over graffiti-covered walls, and requiring students to learn the school song, and be punished if they cannot sing it on demand. When one of the expelled students is found beating up another student, Clark orders the doors of the school chained shut during school hours since funds are insufficient to purchase security doors.

Clark's actions begin to have a positive effect on his students. He encounters Thomas Sams, a young student expelled for crack use, who pleads to be allowed back into school. Clark escorts Sams up to the roof of the school; there he viciously berates the boy for using crack. Nevertheless, Clark gives Sams one more chance to clean up his act and redeem himself or risk expulsion again. Clark also reunites one of his old elementary school students, Kaneesha Carter, with her estranged mother.

Some parents react strongly to these measures, particularly Leonna Barrett, the mother of one of the expelled students, who presses the mayor to oust Clark.

Clark's radicalism brings him into conflict with his own faculty, notably Mr. Darnell, an English teacher, whom Clark suspends for picking up a piece of trash during a recital of the school song and Mrs. Elliot, a music teacher, whom Clark fires for being insubordinate after he cancels a long-planned choral event (the school's upcoming annual Lincoln Center concert). Napier lectures Clark over these incidents, demanding that he act as a team player; Clark subsequently re-instates Darnell.

Unfortunately, a practice basic skills test fails to garner enough passing students. Clark confronts his staff for their failure to educate their students, and to prepare them for the world. Clark institutes a tutorial program to strengthen academic skills; he also encourages remedial reading courses on Saturdays, so that parents may attend alongside their children if they want (or need) to.

When the day for the minimum basic skills test finally arrives, the students are much better prepared and filled with a sense of self-worth. Before the scores can be calculated, the fire chief raids the school and discovers the chained doors. Clark is arrested for violating fire safety codes. That evening, the students gather at the meeting of the Paterson Board of Education, where Barrett, a newly appointed member of the school board, is leading the call for Clark's removal.

The students demand that Clark be released from jail and retained as principal. The mayor has Clark released from jail so that he may urge the children to return home for their own safety. He is interrupted by assistant principal Ms. Joan Levias, who reports that more than 75% of the students have passed the basic skills test. He announces the results over his megaphone.

As a result, the school's current administration remains intact. Clark is allowed to keep his job as principal, as he cheerfully informs the mayor that "You can tell the State to go to hell." The students celebrate by breaking into their school song. The film ends with the senior students, including Sams, graduating high school (amid the closing credits); Clark hands them their diplomas.

 

 

 

 

Summary Of The Story :-

"Lean on Me" (1989) is an inspiring portrayal of Joe Clark's remarkable journey as the principal of Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey. Tasked with revitalizing a school plagued by violence, drugs, and academic decline, Clark employs unorthodox methods and unwavering determination.

 

Facing resistance from students, parents, and faculty, Clark's strict disciplinary measures, including expulsions and a new code of conduct, initially stir controversy. However, his relentless pursuit of excellence, characterized by his bold leadership style and unconventional tactics, begins to yield transformative results.

 

As Clark navigates opposition from the school board and community leaders, he forges ahead, driven by a deep sense of duty and compassion for his students. Through his indomitable spirit, Clark instills discipline, pride, and hope in a once-despairing school environment.

 

Ultimately, "Lean on Me" is a testament to the power of one individual's vision and perseverance to effect positive change. It underscores the profound impact of leadership, resilience, and the unwavering belief in the potential of every student, making it a timeless

tale of inspiration and triumph.

 

 

 

 

STILLS IN MOVIE:

 

REVIEW:

"Lean on Me," directed by John G. Avildsen and released in 1989, is a compelling and inspiring drama that revolves around the true story of Joe Clark, played by the outstanding Morgan Freeman, who takes on the challenging role of revitalizing Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey.

 

Morgan Freeman's performance as Joe Clark is undoubtedly the film's standout feature. His portrayal of the no-nonsense, yet deeply caring principal is both charismatic and impactful. Freeman brings authenticity to the character, making Clark's unorthodox methods and tough exterior believable and compelling. The strength of Freeman's performance is a driving force behind the film's success.

 

The film's narrative follows the troubled Eastside High School as it grapples with issues such as violence, drugs, and academic failure. Joe Clark steps into the role of principal with determination, implementing controversial strategies to restore discipline and academic excellence. The clash between Clark's methods and the community's response adds tension and depth to the storyline.

 

"Lean on Me" effectively addresses social issues prevalent in underprivileged communities, portraying the harsh realities faced by students and educators. The screenplay, penned by Michael Schiffer, strikes a balance between gritty realism and moments of hope, creating a narrative that resonates emotionally. The film doesn't shy away from showcasing the challenges inherent in Clark's unconventional approach, providing a nuanced exploration of the impact of leadership on a struggling educational institution.

 

John G. Avildsen's direction captures the essence of Eastside High School's environment, effectively portraying the challenges and triumphs of its transformation. The pacing keeps the audience engaged, while the supporting cast, including Beverly Todd, contributes to the overall emotional depth of the film. The soundtrack, featuring Joe Cocker's rendition of "With a Little Help from My Friends," complements the narrative and adds to the film's emotional resonance.

In conclusion, "Lean on Me" is a triumph of filmmaking that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release. It's a timeless classic that serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and inspire change.

 

leWhile "Lean on Me" takes some creative liberties with the true story it is based on, the film succeeds in delivering a powerful message about the transformative potential of strong leadership and community support. It remains a timeless classic that speaks to the resilience of individuals and the collective strength of a community. "Lean on Me" is a must-watch for those seeking an inspiring story of overcoming adversity in the face of educational challenges.

What is the message of Lean on Me movie?
If there is a moral to this story or a lesson to be learned it is that young people need to know that someone cares about them and that if they are given a structure and an opportunity to succeed, more often than not, they will succeed.