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Still image from the 1989 movie 'Lean on Me', representing the screenplay.

Lean on Me (1989) Screenplay

"Lean on Me": Read The Screenplay By Michael Schiffer

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Have you read the "Lean on Me" screenplay by Michael Schiffer, with shooting revisions written by Norman Twain? See it right here, right now! This isn't a product of fan labor, and it's not a transcript. Get ready, because you're about to immerse yourself in something fantastic.

And, for your consideration, we offer the revised shooting script from July 1988. Free, courtesy of 8FLiX and Warner Bros., and The Estate of Norman Twain.

Also, you can learn a little more about the screenwriters. Just click or tap their name to get started.

Okay, now let's get to the goods!

Discover More About the "Warfare" Screenplay

Just the facts, and everything else you should know.

Okay, so in addition to the film's logline and poster are some of the most important details about the script. You'll notice that we've attached a "classification" label inside of a color-coded border. For a better understanding of the screenplay's source, have a look at the "Glossary" a little further down.

Also, when you click on the screenwriter's name, you'll be directed to the "Writer Archives." If we have other works from the author, they'll be in there.

Now, let's go through what we have for you today.

Based on real events and real people.

Yes, "Lean on Me" is inspired by real events and a real person. Joe Louis Clark (1938–2020) was a trailblazing American educator and principal of Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey, from 1982 to 1989. Renowned for his tough, no-nonsense leadership style and controversial disciplinary tactics, Clark gained national prominence as a symbol of urban school reform. His legacy became widely known through the 1989 film "Lean on Me," in which he was portrayed by Morgan Freeman. This screenplay is an original shooting draft from July 27, 1988.

Take a look at the "Lean on Me" logline.

Image of the 'Lean on Me' movie poster from 1989, representing the screenplay.

The dedicated but tyrannical Joe Clark is appointed the principal of a decaying inner-city school he is determined to improve by any and all means. Warner Bros.

"Lean on Me" Screenplay Details.

Whether you're a fan or an aspiring screenwriter, here are key insights to know.

To get the "Lean on Me" script now, keep scrolling until you see the READ / DOWNLOAD button. And, just a reminder, for a better understanding of our color-coded classifications, scroll a little further down until you find the "Glossary."

Okay, here are the facts:

Type ...
SCANNED
Version ... Shooting ScriptBuff Revisions
Date ... 07.27.1988
Pages ... 97 + 4
Genres ... BioDrama
Screenplay ... Michael SchifferNorman Twain
IMDb ID ... 0097722

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