LEAN ON ME MOVIE (1989)

 

Review by : Aanisha.S ,2022506040, IT Dept.

Key story:

"In the movie "Lean On Me," a tough principal named Mr. Clark takes charge of a troubled school where every student is either poor or black. The education of these children could change their families’ fate , yet they don’t realise, until Mr.Clark takes over .The school is in bad shape, with drugs, fights, and failing grades everywhere. But Mr. Clark is determined to turn things around.

With Mr. Clark's strong leadership and the hard work of the students and teachers, the school starts to improve. They work together, pass important exams, and celebrate their success.It's a story about how people can overcome tough situations when they work together and believe in themselves and each other."

Major themes:

Throughout the movie, Freeman who plays Mr.Clark demonstrates exceptional leadership qualities,

Bold decision making even in the face of criticism:

Mr. Clark's decision to expel the most disruptive students from the school,  although controversial, can be seen as a necessary step to maintain a safe and conducive learning environment for the rest of the students.  Sometimes, despite our best efforts, certain individuals may not be ready or willing to change their  behaviour. In such cases, difficult decisions must be made to prioritize the well-being  and education of the majority. Mr. Clark's bold move demonstrates his commitment to the 

betterment of the school and the students, even in the face of criticism and opposition.  It highlights the complexities of leadership and the tough choices leaders often have to make for the greater good.

 

Sound judgement :

Mr. Clark's willingness to give the boy a second chance despite his initial dishonesty reflects a powerful theme of redemption and forgiveness. Despite being deceived, Mr. Clark sees the potential in the boy and believes in his ability to change for the better. By taking the time to counsel him about the dangers of smoking and setting expectations for his behaviour, Mr. Clark demonstrates his commitment to nurturing the growth and potential of every student, even those who have made mistakes.

Courage to voice injustice:

Although mr.clark is a strong leader , he is quite insensitive when it comes to the efforts of the teachers who work with equal commitment

The theme that Ms. Levias embodies is about standing up to authority or speaking up when something isn't right. She challenges Mr. Clark's way of doing things and helps to show the importance of working together as a team.

Self sacrifice for greater good:

In this scenario, Mr. Clark's decision to chain the door, even though it goes against the law, highlights his commitment to the safety and well-being of his students. This phrase reflects Mr. Clark's willingness to prioritize the immediate safety oncerns of the students over bureaucratic regulations. It underscores the theme  sacrifice and dedication to protecting others,even if it means taking unconventional or risky actions.

The 5 key elements:

Mise en Scene:

The mise-en-scène in "Lean On Me" undergoes a striking transformation, initially depicting chaos and violence within the school's environment. Through set design, lighting, and costume, the tumultuous atmosphere is vividly conveyed. 

As the narrative progresses, the mise-en-scène evolves to reflect a warmer and more comfortable setting, symbolizing the positive changes occurring within the school. 

Chaotic and violent environment(scribbled walls, dirty chairs,students in chaos)

The school after transformation (neat background,good lightning making it look warm)

Performance:

The performances in "Lean On Me" are exceptional, led by Morgan Freeman's commanding portrayal of Joe Clark. 

The supporting cast delivers authenticity and emotional depth. Collectively, their talent and dedication bring the characters to life, 

enriching the film with authenticity and emotional resonance.

The boy potrays a body language of submission and obedience as he realizes his mistake in this scene, while Mr.Clark is commanding.

Kaneesha looks helpless and Mr.Clark looks comforting

The cast of "Lean On Me" delivers performances brimming with depth and emotion, intricately delving into the complexities of their characters' inner struggles and triumphs.

Cinematography:

The cinematography in "Lean On Me" effectively captures the mood and atmosphere of the story through its visual storytelling and use of symbolism. Dynamic camera movements and angles add energy to key scenes, while close-ups and point-of-view shots deepen our connection to the characters' experiences. The use of lighting and colours enhances the emotional impact of the film, bringing depth and meaning to each moment. Overall, the cinematography 

in "Lean On Me" enriches the storytelling and elevates the viewing experience for audiences.

Sound:

Notice how the film utilises naturalistic sound, focusing on ambient noises and dialogue to create a sense of realism and immersion in the environment of East Side High. Emphasis on Dialogue: Pay attention to the significance of dialogue in conveying conflict, emotion, and character dynamics. 

The sparing use of sound allows for greater emphasis on the exchanges between characters.

Editing:

Finally, appreciate the creativity and craftsmanship involved in crafting the montage. From the selection of footage to the pacing of the editing, every aspect is carefully considered to maximise its impact and effectiveness in conveying the intended message.

In summary, "Lean On Me" stands as a remarkable underdog film and one of John G. Avildsen's finest works. Through its portrayal of overcoming challenges and adversity, the film exemplifies Avildsen's mastery in showcasing resilience and triumph in the face of difficulty.