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Saturday, January 22, 2011

Movies of Educators to Inspire...

Over the last little while I've been recalling some of my favourite movies dealing with education from an educators perspective.  This is by no means a comprehensive list, but a list that is worth a gander

The Emperor's Club -- Kevin Klein is a Roman history teacher, that clashes wills with the son of a senator.  When Klein believes he has failed, he gets surprised by his successes.  To quote one of his students "A great teacher has little external history to record. His life goes over into other lives. These men are pillars in the intimate structure of our schools. They are more essential than its stones or beams, and they will continue to be a kindling force and a revealing power in our lives."

Dead Poets Society -- One of my all time favourite Robin Williams performances.  Robin Williams portrays a teacher that returns to his Alma mater, to enlighten and mold his students into aspiring thinkers, with some tragic consequences.  "Captain, my captain" still rings in my mind when I'm feeling a little rebelliousness stirring in my heart and mind. If you can find it, the directors cut is worth the extra time.

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Football Movies

There are a handful of good, inspirational, football biopics that are kicking around

Brian's Song — The story of Chicago Bears' running backs Brian Piccolo and Leo Sayers.  Their friendship and of course how they deal with adversity.  It's one of the few movies where men are allowed to cry.

Invincible — 30 year old Philadelphia bartender turned Eagle's wide-receiver Vince Papale.  Sometimes the dream can become reality.

The Express — The story of Syracuse running back Ernie Davis, who became the first afro-american to win the Heisman Trophy; his struggles with racism, and his untimely death from leukemia.  Even if there are some historical issues with the movie, still inspirational.

The Blind Side — Balitmore Raven's offensive tackle Michael Oher, was born on the wrong side of town.  Through some twists of fate he eventually was adopted by Ole Miss boosters the Touhys.  This movie has a great performance by Sandra Bullock, and is worth a gander.

There are so many other reviews on the net, you can read the specifics there,  but with us closing in on SuperBowl XLV (45),  I thought this gives you something else to watch and still maintain a football theme...


More Later....
G