Blackboard Jungle (1955)

Opens with (Bill Haley and His Comets’) "Rock Around the Clock" ushering in rock n’ roll as well as a cast of new young actors and would-be stars (e.g. Jamie Farr & Vic Morrow’s film debut). Directed by Richard Brooks who also adapted the Evan Hunter novel this above average drama features Glenn Ford as Richard Dadier the teacher in "the jungle" of students which includes Sidney Poitier (his fifth film) Morrow Paul Mazursky (his second film) and Farr. Anne Francis portrays Ford’s new wife. Louis Calhern plays another teacher. Brooks received his first recognition from the Academy with an Oscar nomination for his screenplay; Editor Ferris Webster also received his first nomination. Russell Harlan’s (The Big Sky (1952)) B&W Cinematography was also nominated as was the film’s B&W Art Direction-Set Decoration. A timeless film about generational differences between teachers and their students. Poitier’s character is the peacemaker that bridges the gap.

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