Gus Van Sant tells the story of a young African American man named Jamal who confronts his talents while living on the streets of the Bronx. He accidentally runs into an old writer named Forrester who discovers his passion for writing. With help from his new mentor Jamal receives a scholarship to a private school.
Sean Connery
as William Forrester
Rob Brown
as Jamal Wallace
F. Murray Abraham
as Robert Crawford
Anna Paquin
as Claire Spence
Damany Mathis
as Kenzo
Busta Rhymes
as Terrell Wallace
April Grace
as Ms. Joyce
Michael Pitt
as John Coleridge
Michael Nouri
as Dr. Spence
Richard Easton
as Prof. Matthews
Glenn Fitzgerald
as Massie
Lil' Zane
as Damon
