Blackboard Jungle (1955) – an historically important film about an idealistic WWII veteran in a gang-ridden school, featuring Sidney Poitier as a rebellious student (A heartfelt thanks to Jacob Peretson for bringing this remarkable film to my attention.)

1.) In film history, Blackboard Jungle, is notable for being the first film to have a rock and roll soundtrack – Bill Haley’s classic “Rock around the Clock.” In fact, the film shot the song to the top of the charts and made it the classic that it is.

2.) The film was so popular with teens that it caused riots at screenings around the world – or at least dancing in the aisles of the theaters and the tearing up of seats. The young John Lennon would be terribly disappointed when this did not happen when he went to see it.

3.) The film is evocative of the gang culture in West Side Story (1957). A MODEL FOR THE “INSPIRATIONAL TEACHER” FILM – eg. To Sir with Love, Stand and Deliver, Lean On Me, Freedom Writers

A MUST SEE – especially if you have any interest in either film history, cultural history,  or the problems of dysfunctional schools.