Movies like Light It Up

Coach Carter features Samuel L. Jackson as a coach who brings discipline and direction to a high school basketball team. Much like Light It Up, it explores the obstacles faced by young people in tough urban environments and the mentors who help them succeed.

Stand and Deliver is a classic story of students overcoming adversity in an educational setting, featuring Edward James Olmos as a math teacher who inspires his underachieving students to succeed. Those who appreciate the empowerment through education depicted in Light It Up will find this true story inspiring.

Dangerous Minds, starring Michelle Pfeiffer, shares the theme of challenging and inspiring students in an underfunded school, similar to Light It Up. The compelling story of a teacher who connects with her tough inner-city students will resonate with viewers who appreciate films about education and empowerment.

Freedom Writers, with Hilary Swank leading a classroom of at-risk students, tells the true story of using writing to express their struggles and forge a path to a better future. Similar to Light It Up, it displays the impact that dedicated teachers can have on troubled youth.

Half Nelson presents a more complex relationship between an inspiring teacher, played by Ryan Gosling, and his inner-city middle school students. It's a raw and thought-provoking film that will appeal to those who are intrigued by the nuanced portrayal of educational environments that Light It Up provides.

Take the Lead pairs Antonio Banderas with a group of problem students through ballroom dancing. This uplifting narrative on unconventional teaching methods echoes the motivational tone found in Light It Up.

The Principal is a gritty movie in which James Belushi plays a teacher turned principal tasked with turning around a drug and gang-infested high school. It's another film that aligns with Light It Up's themes of education, challenge, and change.