Movies like The Great Debaters

This film tells the story of a high school basketball coach who benches his undefeated team due to their poor academic results. Coach Carter shares The Great Debaters' emphasis on the importance of education over extracurricular successes and the tough love approach to coaching and mentoring.

Dead Poets Society is a compelling drama about an unconventional English teacher who inspires his students to look at poetry differently and to seize the day. Fans of The Great Debaters will appreciate the strong themes of education, mentorship, and standing up for one's beliefs in this Robin Williams classic.

This film is based on a true story and focuses on the integration of a racially segregated team. Just like The Great Debaters, Remember the Titans deals with racial tensions, unity, and overcoming adversity through teamwork and dedication, making it a perfect follow-up for audiences who appreciate thought-provoking true stories.

The Blind Side is a touching story about a homeless and traumatized boy who becomes an All American football player with the help of a caring woman and her family. It shares with The Great Debaters the idea of overcoming life's obstacles through the support of education and the sense of community.

In this inspiring tale, a teacher inspires her at-risk students to learn tolerance, apply themselves, and pursue education beyond high school. Fans of The Great Debaters will likely enjoy Freedom Writers for its powerful messages about education's role in societal change and the impact of an inspiring teacher.

Finding Forrester is a film about a unique friendship that develops between an introverted writing prodigy and a reclusive author. The themes of mentorship, personal growth through literature, and breaking down social barriers align well with the sentiments of The Great Debaters.

A heartwarming tale of an eleven-year-old girl from south Los Angeles trying to earn a spot in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. This film resonates with The Great Debaters in its depiction of the struggle against societal expectations, personal growth, and the power of perseverance.