The Ron Clark Story (2006)

Seal of Approval - Parents Television Council. Golden Globe® Nominated - Best Actor in a TV Movie. Three-time Emmy® Award nominee Matthew Perry (TV's Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, Friends) delivers a "...tour-de-force performance" (Boston Herald) as real-life inspiration Ron Clark, a passionate and innovative teacher who leaves his small hometown to teach in one of Harlem's toughest schools. But to break through to his students, Clark must use unconventional methods, including his ground-breaking classroom rules, to drive them toward their greatest potential. DVD Features include: "The Teacher Behind the Story:" Ron Clark, Matthew Perry, cast & crew interviews; "Making the Grade:" Ron wins the Disney American Teacher Award!; "Stepping Out of the Classroom:" Ron and students tour South Africa; "Breaking New Ground:" A ground-breaking new school Product Description

A teacher with an insane amount of energy

I don't think "The Ron Clark Story" hit the bigscreen. Or if it did, it was not for long. This is a shame, because it is a really good movie. It is based on the true story (always a plus) of Ron Clark, a school teacher from North Carolina who packs up his bags and heads for Harlem to teach school there.

Matthew Perry ("Chandler" from Friends) is great as Ron Clark. He is an excellent mix of determined, fun, energetic and frustrated with the challenges of teaching in Harlem. The story is inspiring and uplifting, though you may be dismayed to see the portrayal of elementary school in Harlem.

The special features on the DVD are also great - interviews with the actors, the director and most importantly, Ron Clark. Matthew Perry is great as Ron Clark because he is so believable. Ron Clark himself is unbelievable - it does take a special kind of someone to volunteer to teach in one of the most inhospitable climates in the US. You have to admire his energy and commitment, even if you do question his sanity.

At 90 minutes, it is a short and enjoyable film. Recommended for all (though children would probably find some images disturbing).
July 19, 2008

Ron Clark Story

Great inspirational true story. A remarkable man who went above and beyond to reach & inspire his students. A must watch for teachers prior to starting the new school year. June 18, 2008

The Ron Clark Story

When movies tell stories about teachers, why does it always seem the same (with the exception of Half Nelson)? Here's usually how it goes, teacher is assigned to a particularly unruly group of students. It was hell during the first few days. And then there's going to be a turning point where everybody realizes that the teacher cares for them so they start to pay attention. And then boom... everybody's life is change... forever...

As tired as that formula is, I can't help but really like this TV movie. Sometimes being conventional is OK as long as you're doing it right. And I think this movie hits all the right notes. Being based on a true story of a relatively known educator does not hurt either. But I have to give credit to Matthew Perry, who even though will forever be Chandler to me, puts his comedic timing and his surprisingly low key dramatic chops into good use in this movie.

Some aspects of the story sometimes seemed to be too good to be true. And in the tradition of film adaptations, I wonder how much of the movie was altered for dramatic purposes. But that should be the least of your worries, I find this movie hugely entertaining and easy to watch. Definitely not a bad way to spend a few hours on. April 28, 2008

The Ron Clark Story

This is a must see guys! Great inspiring story about man who cared about kids and made them care about themselves. We need more teachers like Mr. Clark who genuinely love kids and will put them in their places when needed! Mr. Clark taught the kids to believe in themselves and that made all of the difference in the world. Read the books by Ron Clark because they will be useful in the classroom and at home with parents! A+***** April 14, 2008

Great Movie... It's a MUST Buy!

This is seriously one of the best movies ever. Matthew Perry plays Ron Clark so well (and did I mention adorably?), and all the main kids in the movie are good actors/actresses. The story may seem a bit cliche, but unlike some other movies with a similiar plot, this one is based on a true story. It's so inspirational and will have you laughing, crying, and even cheering for the characters throughout the entire movie.

The extras are really neat too, and for the price, this movie is a MUST buy.

This may go down as one of my favorite movies... ever. April 12, 2008

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