Won't Back Down

Watch Won't Back Down

"If you can't beat the system... change it"
  • PG
  • 2012
  • 6.4  (6,839)
  • 42

Won't Back Down is a drama film that was released in 2012. Directed by Daniel Barnz and starring Viola Davis, Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Holly Hunter, the film tells the story of two mothers who are determined to revamp their children's failing inner-city school. Set in the fictional neighborhood of Adams, Pennsylvania, the movie centers around the life of Jamie Fitzpatrick (Maggie Gyllenhaal), a single mother who works two jobs to support her daughter Malia (Emily Alyn Lind). Malia has dyslexia but is unable to receive the proper help from her school, which is plagued by incompetent teachers, and under-resourced programs.

At a parent-teacher conference, Jamie meets Nona Alberts (Viola Davis), a passionate teacher who agrees that the school is failing their students. Nona has lost faith in the school's principal, who is more concerned with maintaining the status quo than helping the students.

After doing some research, Jamie learns about a state law that enables parents to take over a school if they can gather signatures from more than 50% of the families. The two women decide to team up and lead a movement to transform their children's school.

Won't Back Down is a gripping and inspiring story that raises important issues about education reform. The movie delves deep into the problems that inner-city schools face, such as large class sizes, low teacher morale, and inadequate funding.

The film portrays the complexities of the education system - putting a spotlight on issues of teacher incompetence, union bureaucracy, and apathetic administrators. The movie, however, is not afraid to point out that even with all these structural limitations, there are still talented and dedicated teachers who are passionate about their work - just like Nona Alberts.

The lead actresses, Davis and Gyllenhaal, give outstanding performances. Davis portrays a committed teacher who is torn between her love for her students and her loyalty to union policies. Gyllenhaal convincingly plays Jamie Fitzpatrick, a fierce, determined mother who is passionate about securing a better future for her daughter and her community.

The support cast adds additional nuance to the story. Holly Hunter plays a seasoned teacher who initially opposes the change but ultimately joins the movement. Marianne Jean-Baptiste brings gravitas to her role as an influential school board member who helps to make things happen. Other notable actors include Rosie Perez, Ving Rhames, and Lance Reddick.

Won't Back Down is an emotionally charged movie that is both heart-warming and thought-provoking. The film celebrates the power of individuals to change their destiny and bring positive change in their communities. The movie highlights that education is not just about imparting knowledge but taking care of students' well-being and nurturing their potential.

In conclusion, Won't Back Down is an engrossing film that encapsulates the struggles and aspirations of many people today. Its themes of activism, change, and empathy are as relevant today as they were in 2012. The film provides an insightful look into the American education system and encourages its viewers to take action in their communities.

Won't Back Down is a 2012 drama. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 42.

Won't Back Down
Description
Where to Watch Won't Back Down
Won't Back Down is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, YouTube VOD and Vudu. Some platforms allow you to rent Won't Back Down for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    2012
  • MPAA Rating
    PG
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.4  (6,839)
  • Metascore
    42
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