Optimism shines bright in this 1967 loose adaptation of E.R. Braithwaite’s 1959 autobiographical novel sharing the same title. Set in Britain, Mark Thackeray (a lithe and charming Sidney Poitier) accepts a teaching position after months of trying to find a job in his desired profession, engineering. The students at North Quay Secondary School (high school in the States) challenge Thackeray’s authority as a teacher, and importantly, as a Black man. As he attempts to maintain his cool demeanor whilst dealing with his unruly pupils, he learns about their inner lives and the struggles they endure. In turn, Thackeray shares that he too comes from the other side of the tracks. Empathy flows as Thackeray and the kids learn to trust and depend on one another.

Directed by James Clavell, 1967, 100 minutes, Not Rated.

Content Warning: This film contains potentially triggering content.

Tags: fighting, suggested nudity, racism, classism, profanity, and sexist slurs

The National Bank of Indianapolis Summer Nights Film Series features 15 films this year. To see the full lineup, click here