She broke the rules… and changed their lives.|Aug. 11, 1995|United States|99 Min.|R
Genre: Drama
Description: Louanne Johnson, a former Marine, takes on a teaching role at a high school, quickly realizing the challenges she faces. Her students, tough and disengaged teenagers from low-income backgrounds, are involved in gang violence and drug activities. They dub her “White Bread” due to her race and perceived lack of authority. In response, Louanne adopts a tougher approach, wearing a leather jacket and teaching karate, which momentarily captures their interest. However, engaging them in the standard curriculum proves difficult.
To make poetry accessible, Louanne uses Bob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man” to teach symbolism and metaphor, later progressing to Dylan Thomas’s “Do not go gentle into that good night.” Despite her efforts, she encounters resistance from administrators like George Grandey and Carla Nichols, who insist she adhere strictly to the curriculum.
Louanne takes a particular interest in two students: Raul Sanchero, who struggles with gang involvement, and Emilio Ramirez, whose sense of honor prevents him from seeking help. She visits Raul’s family to encourage him and dines with him to boost his confidence. For Emilio, whose life is threatened by a personal enemy, she advises him to seek help from Principal Grandey. However, when Emilio approaches Grandey, he is dismissed for not knocking before entering.
Louanne’s journey highlights her determination to connect with her students and make a difference, despite the obstacles she faces in a challenging educational environment.
Cast director: John N. Smith
Cast actor: Michelle Pfeiffer, George Dzundza, Courtney B. Vance, Robin Bartlett, John Neville, Lorraine Toussaint, Renoly Santiago, Skye Bassett, Beatrice Winde, Wade Dominguez
Original name: Dangerous Minds