Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Emily VanCamp | ... | Stacey Bess | |
Steve Talley | ... | Greg Bess | |
Timothy Busfield | ... | School district's HR representative | |
Julio Oscar Mechoso | ... | Johnny Hernandez | |
Nicki Aycox | ... | Candy | |
Kiersten Warren | ... | Danny's Mom | |
Treat Williams | ... | Dr. Warren | |
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Liam McKanna | ... | Danny |
Paola Andino | ... | Maria | |
Luis Jose Lopez | ... | Carlos | |
Deidrie Henry | ... | Patricia | |
Luce Rains | ... | Joe | |
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Mathew Greer | ... | Nelson Parker (as Mat Greer) |
Savannah McReynolds | ... | Nicole Bess | |
Colin Baiocchi | ... | Brandon Bess |
A 24-year-old first-time teacher overcomes her initial fears and prejudices and makes a difference in the lives of the homeless children she teaches in a shelter's makeshift classroom.
I've seen Beyond The Blackboard a couple of times now and each time it has proved to be an enjoyable watch.
While films about inspirational teachers getting the best out of wayward children are pretty common what separates this one from the rest is the heart and strength of the script behind it. It goes against the normal cliché's and this makes for a better film.
It is helped by the fact that Emily Van Camp (better known to many as Emily in Revenge and Amy in the dearly missed Everwood) gives a great performance as Stacey and is supported by some good performances from the young children playing her pupils. Fans of the formerly mentioned Everwood will like the sight of Van Camp working with Treat Williams again and their chemistry shines through in the limited scenes they have together. It is also nice to see Cal from Studio 60 (aka Timothy Busfield) also appear in this above average TV movie.