Review of Higher Learning (1995) by Kevin R — 23 Jan 2010

We take care of our own.

Higher Learning depicts a class of college freshman at Columbus University who need to overcome stereotypes, sexual experimentation, and financial hardships. As they fight to overcome these obstacles, their issues seem to bring the students together in one form or another. Ultimately, some of the student?s lives will be ruined and other students will overcome the obstacles and succeed in life.

?I ain?t no dumb athlete.?

?That remains to be seen.?

John Singleton, director of Boyz n the Hood, Shaft, Poetic Justice, 2 Fast 2 Furious, Baby Boy, Four Brothers, and the upcoming Luke Cage (Tyrese Gibson), delivers Higher Learning. The storyline for this picture is magnificent and well delivered. The acting is first rate and includes Laurence Fishburne, Tyra Banks, Omar Epps, Kristy Swanson, Jennifer Connelly, Michael Rapaport, Busta Rymes, Regina King, Cole Hauser, and Ice Cube.

?Read it for yourself and not no damn class.?

Higher Learning has always been a film that made me feel a bit indifferent at the end. I know I should feel bad for Tyra Banks character; however, I always feel bad for Michael Rapaport?s character. Nevertheless, this film is probably Singleton?s second best movie after Boyz n the Hood. The story is compelling, the characters are wonderfully delivered, and the conclusion is first rate. This is a must see movie and worth having in your DVD collection.

?It?s like soul train in there.?

Grade: A.