Lean on Me is a 1989 American drama film based on a true story.

Tagline: A true story about a real hero.

Plot summary:

• A true story about an inner city school in Paterson, New Jersey has students testing below average in their basic skills test scores. Now the school is at risk of being taken over by the State. The mayor asks the school superintendent for help and he suggests they appoint the controversial Joe Clark as the new principal. Clark is controversial and at first has everyone on his bad side, including the teachers, but eventually he turns the school's reputation around with his discipline.

Cast:

• Morgan Freeman ... as Principal Joe Clark
• Alan North ... as Mayor Don Bottman