Freedom Writers

"It takes the bold approach of being earnest, honest and unafraid to be called naive. As a result, it's extremely affecting..."

"In Freedom Writers Hilary Swank uses neediness to fine effect in a film with a strong emotional tug and smartly laid foundation..."

"The film is both too short and too long at two hours-plus. Not enough time is spent with the teens and far too much with their teacher..."

"Overall Freedom Writers is a noble effort. At a time when New Year's resolutions to change already are falling by the wayside, you can't help but be moved by a group of young people who followed through on their resolve..."

"Freedom Writers is a cross between Michelle Pfeiffer's Dangerous Minds and the documentary Paper Clips, about an American High School's Holocaust project. Although this feel-good drama sounds like something you've seen before, it's a story worth seeing again..."

"Despite solid work from the engaging cast, there’s nothing new here to distinguish Freedom Writers as anything beyond a C+..."

"Freedom Writers has its inspiring moments - especially given the true story - and some tense, dramatic scenes amid the speedy montages of confusing gang action. Swank's performance helps the medicine go down, too, making this a pleasant watch despite its indulgent length and sketchy characters..."