Higher Learning (1995)

This ambitious 1995 film by John Singleton (Boyz N the Hood) doesn't quite succeed at painting the illuminating, collective portrait of college life in the '90s that the director seeks. But Singleton does do a fine job of defining some conflicting impulses for young people on the cusp of adulthood, particularly the desire to broaden horizons on the one hand and circle the wagons with like-minded allies on the other. Students in the film's Columbus University divide themselves along lines of race, sexual preferences, ideology, and, most dangerously, levels of paranoia. Among the fine cast is Michael Rapaport, who portrays a loner drawn to a local community of neo-Nazis. His resultant problems with the school's African-Americans takes over the story at the expense of other, parallel dramas, but Singleton's insights into race hatred on campus--a microcosm of the surrounding culture--is not to be dismissed. --Tom Keogh Amazon.com

Excellent movie

I saw this movie when it came out. Now that it is over a decade later I still think it is an excellent movie. September 19, 2007

movie reflecting society

this movie covers alot of topics which are addressed in college orientation classes. Its a snap shot of what students may or may not encounter in college. I believe this is one of Singleon's better movies. July 28, 2007

My 2nd Favorite Movie

I'm surprised I hadn't reviewed this movie long ago, especially considering this has been my favorite movie for almost a decade. John Singleton expertly weaves a tale of characters of various races in a tragic situation. You have the white frat guys, the black hip hop headz, the black intellectuals, the nerdish crew, the hippies, the slackers, and the professionals all on one campus. Although various races are intermingled within this movie, the concentration of this film is on black and white, specifically racism that a black man may face on a predominantly white college campus. Being that I dealt with the same thing at the first college I went to, most of these scenes were all too familiar for me, minus the KKK scenes (which I could never prove). I appreciate Singleton for presenting movies from a black man's perspective in an educational environment, especially considering it's so rare, and telling of the struggles that Malik (Omar Epp's character) goes through. From beginning to end, I loved this movie. My favorite scene was when Ice Cube found the Nazis upstairs by the pop machines. I also appreciate Ice Cube's lectures explaining that just because you won the fight does not mean you won the full battle. Right on. May 24, 2007

Good Concept Horrible Execution

There are great lesson in this movie but they are overshadowed by the cartoonish stereotypes used to try and lead the viewer by the hand through all of the mental obstacles. The movie never lets you think about anything because it all so heavy handed and blatent. March 23, 2007

I really enjoyed this.

As long as this movie has been out, the purchase of this marks the first time I've watch it. It's really deep, good, and makes you think. I love it!!! March 16, 2007

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