This week I had the opportunity to pre-screen a really inspiring movie, “Won’t Back Down“. This Fox Studios film featuring Viola Davis, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Holly Hunter opens in local theaters on September 28th. Based on actual events, the film follows two determined mothers looking to transform their children’s failing inner-city school, and how they risk everything to make a difference in the education and future of their children.
Viola Davis, the determined teacher who wants more for her son that is struggling with his own challenges, was wonderful in this roll. Being the wife of a high school teacher, I really related with her struggle to do the right thing by her students and be the teacher she felt she was meant to be.
Maggie Gyllenhaal, a mother who decides she needs to make big changes for her dyslexic daughter, is turned down when simply trying to switch teachers. As a mom, I was emotionally connected with Maggie’s character. I would do anything for my children and it is scary to think that they may not get what they need from local schools. Having a son heading into kindergarten and a daughter in preschool, we are trying to make the best decision on which schools to send them to.
Won’t Back Down is an amazing film that I would recommend to teachers, moms and those who are looking for a good movie to get you inspired to make a change in the lives of today’s youngsters. You can check out the trailer here: Won’t Back Down.
