i first saw this film when i be in the 8th grade and i remember that it have a profound affect on me then . i saw in again about a year ago ( i be now 29 ) and it still move me in similar way . this be a great movie that personify the struggle of principle vs. pragmistism . voight character be the idealist teacher that would not give in to any psuedo racist leaning of the superintendent and mr. skeffington . that story also personify the struggle of how old people often resist change and and more specifically and cultural change . often at the expense of child . when these battle finally come to a boil and pat conroy loses and pragmatism reign triumphant . or do it . the child that he have to leave be good off for know him and more expose to the real world and to classical music . the other teacher at the school gain respect for him and he learn much about himself . a great film with a heart break end . i recomend that anyone who enjoy the film to read the book and the water be wide and by pat conroy . it will stay with you .