FREE: Higher learning

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s a 1995 American drama film, starring an ensemble cast. It also featured Tyra Banks' first performance in a theatrical film. Laurence Fishburne won an Image Award for "Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture" for his performance; Ice Cube was also nominated for the award.

The film follows the changing lives of three incoming freshmen at the fictional Columbus University: Malik Williams (Omar Epps), a black track star who struggles with academics; Kristen Connor (Kristy Swanson), a shy and naive girl; and Remy (Michael Rapaport), a lonely and confused man seemingly out of place in his new environment.

Young people from different countries, races and social backgrounds are forced to integrate when they enroll in Columbus University, where West Indian Professor Maurice Phipps (Laurence Fishburne) teaches political science. The students have to deal with problems such as financial difficulties, harassment, personal safety, self doubt, sexuality and racism. Already under pressure to perform in the classroom, in athletics, or in social settings, the students are strained to the breaking point by prejudice, inexperience, misunderstanding and their need to fit in.


Omar Epps as Malik Williams
Kristy Swanson as Kristen Connor
Michael Rapaport as Remy
Ice Cube as Fudge
Jennifer Connelly as Taryn
Tyra Banks as Deja
Regina King as Monet
Jason Wiles as Wayne
Cole Hauser as Scott Moss
Busta Rhymes as Dreads
Laurence Fishburne as Professor Maurice Phipps
Bradford English as Officer Bradley
Jay R. Ferguson as Billy
Andrew Bryniarski as Knocko
Trevor St. John as James
Talbert Morton as Erik
Adam Goldberg as David Isaacs
J. Trevor Edmond as Eddie
Bridgette Wilson as Nicole
Kari Wührer as Claudi
Morris Chestnut as Track Anchor (Uncredited)
Gwyneth Paltrow as Student (Uncredited)