"Freedom Writers" is inspired by a true story and the diaries of real Long Beach teenagers after the LA riots, during the worst outbreak of interracial gang warfare. Two-time Academy Award® winner Hilary Swank stars as Erin Gruwell, whose passion to become a teacher is soon challenged by a group of Black, Latino, and Asian gangbangers who hate her even more than each other. When Erin begins to listen to them in a way no adult has ever done, she begins to understand that for these kids, getting through the day alive is enough -- they are not delinquents but teenagers fighting "a war of the streets" that began long before they were born. Erin gives them something they never had from a teacher before -- respect. For the first time, these teens experience a hope that maybe, they might show the world that their lives matter and they have something to say.

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Take a group of restless, inner city students raised in the wrong side of the tracks, a determined teacher with a mission, and a session in Room 203, exploring beyond what is written in textbooks, and you get a movement that starts through writing. "Freedom Writers" is based on the true story of Erin Gruwell (played by Hilary Swank) and a diverse group of racially charged students. Unfortunate moments add up to memories that scar us with little or no explanation as to "why" it had to happen. This film inspires viewers to give hope a chance, even under the pressures of society. The Freedom Writers found an outlet to express their angst and rebellion through the help of their mentor, their teacher. Together, they mentally battled their way to survival. Sometimes the best way is the "write" way. Also starring: Mario.

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