Lean On Me (1989)

When principal Joe Clark takes over decaying Eastside High School, he's faced with students wearing gang colors and graffiti-covered walls. Determined to do anything he must to turn the school around, he expels suspected drug dealers, padlocks doors and demands effort and results from students, staff and parents. Autocratic to a fault, this real-life educator put it all on the line.

Genres: Drama

What to watch after Lean On Me

• The Karate Kid (1984) — John G. Avildsen directed both
• Coach Carter (2005) — Same subject: high school, violence in schools
• The Power of One (1992) — John G. Avildsen directed both
• Glory (1989)
• Somebody Up There Likes Me (1956)
• Driving Miss Daisy (1989)