The topic of safety in schools is both poignant and necessary, touching on the lives of students, teachers, and parents alike. This curated list of films not only entertains but also educates, shedding light on various aspects of school safety, from bullying to emergency preparedness. These films are not just stories; they are conversations starters, encouraging us to reflect on how we can create safer learning environments. Whether you're a teacher, a student, or simply someone interested in societal issues, these films offer a unique perspective on the challenges and solutions surrounding school safety.

The Breakfast Club (1985)
Description: This classic John Hughes film explores the stereotypes and pressures within a high school setting, indirectly touching on issues of safety through the lens of social dynamics.
Fact: The film was shot in a single location, a high school library, over the course of a weekend.


Dead Poets Society (1989)
Description: While focusing on the transformative power of education, this film also subtly addresses the pressures students face, which can impact their safety and well-being.
Fact: Robin Williams won a Golden Globe for Best Actor for his role as the inspiring teacher, John Keating.


Mean Girls (2004)
Description: A satirical look at high school social hierarchies, this film highlights the impact of peer pressure and bullying on school safety and student well-being.
Fact: The screenplay was written by Tina Fey, who also stars in the film, and it has become a cultural phenomenon with its memorable quotes and characters.


The History Boys (2006)
Description: While primarily about education, this film touches on themes of student-teacher relationships and the pressures of academic success, which can influence school safety indirectly.
Fact: The film is based on the play by Alan Bennett, who also wrote the screenplay, and features a cast of well-known British actors.


The Wave (2008)
Description: This German film delves into how a classroom experiment on autocracy spirals out of control, showing the potential dangers of group dynamics and the importance of vigilance in educational settings.
Fact: The film is a remake of the 1981 American TV movie "The Wave," which was inspired by a real-life classroom experiment.


The Class (2008)
Description: This French film, set in a Parisian school, explores the daily challenges faced by a teacher dealing with a diverse student body, highlighting issues like cultural clashes and classroom management, which are crucial for school safety.
Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2008 and is based on a semi-autobiographical novel by François Bégaudeau, who also stars in the film.


We Need to Talk About Kevin (2011)
Description: This chilling drama examines the aftermath of a school shooting, focusing on the mother's perspective and the complex dynamics of family life that can impact school safety.
Fact: The film was adapted from the novel by Lionel Shriver and received critical acclaim for its portrayal of the psychological aspects of school violence.


The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Description: This film deals with themes of mental health, bullying, and the importance of supportive environments in schools, all of which are integral to school safety.
Fact: The screenplay was adapted by Stephen Chbosky from his own novel, and the film features a breakout performance by Logan Lerman.


The Edge of Seventeen (2016)
Description: This coming-of-age story addresses bullying and the emotional turmoil of teenage life, offering insights into how these issues can affect school safety.
Fact: The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of high school life and the complex dynamics between students.


Elephant (2003)
Description: This film, inspired by the Columbine High School massacre, provides a haunting look at the events leading up to a school shooting, focusing on the ordinary day that turns tragic.
Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and is known for its unique narrative structure.
