WAMG First Look at ‘Front of the Class’

Before you  question me for posting an article about a made-for-TV Hallmark movie, let me explain… I am paying attention to this one in particular because it hits close to home. The film tackles an issue in America (and obviously other cities in the world) that is lacking in awareness. The film is based on  a true story about Brad Cohen, from the book co-written by Lisa Wysocky. Brad Cohen is a man with Tourette Syndrome who overcomes his obstacles and becomes a great teacher. It’s refreshing to see a movie that offers support of people with Tourette Syndrome instead of using it as a comical crutch like so many movies have recently done. (i.e. Duece Bigelow, etc.) To my recollection, the last relatively “known” movie to depict Tourette Syndrome in a  realistic light was ‘The Tic Code’ starring Gregory Hines.

It is extremely difficult to get  an accurate figure on how  many children and adults are affected by Tourette Syndrome, but authoritative estimates place it around 200,000 in the United States alone. Having myself been diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at the age of 12, my experience growing up was significantly  influenced by how my  “tics” were perceived by those at school, both from  students and teachers alike. I can attest that without promoting awareness of Tourette Syndrome and encouraging an understanding of it, the experience of young people with Tourette Syndrome can often be difficult. I am fortunate that most of my  tics have  subsided with age, and with the help of some very wise people in my life,  but this is not the case for many.  I encourage everyone make an effort to watch this movie, especially if you have children… have them watch it with you as well.

‘Front of the Class’ is scheduled to air on CBS: Sunday, December 7, 2008 @ 9:00pm EST.

The national Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc. is very excited to announce the Hallmark Hall of Fame TV presentation of Front of the Class, which will premiere on Sunday, December 7, 2008, at 9:00 pm EST on CBS.

Front of the Class is inspired by the true story of Brad Cohen, a young man diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome who overcomes considerable odds to become a gifted teacher. Based on Brad’s award winning book, Front of the Class: How Tourette Syndrome Made Me the Teacher I Never Had, this poignant TV feature is an accurate and inspiring depiction of this much misunderstood neurological disorder.

The adult Brad is played by Jimmy Wolk (The Spiral Project) and young Brad is played by Dominic Scott Kay (Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End). Patricia Heaton (Everybody Loves Raymond) and Treat Williams (Everwood) play Brad’s parents.

When growing up, teachers and other adults – even Brad’s father – interpreted his involuntary sounds and sudden jerking movements as attempts to get attention. He was teased by other kids. As a result, he hated school, until his school principal recognized and acknowledged that Brad’s acting up was actually a result of his Tourette Syndrome symptoms. His principal chose to use an all-school assembly to educate both the faculty and his fellow students about the disorder. This dramatic incident was pivotal in helping Brad win their understanding and acceptance.

At that point, Brad decided to become the teacher he never had. But that ambition was more easily stated than achieved. Despite an impressive college record and glowing recommendations, getting a job was an almost insurmountable challenge. He was turned down in 24 consecutive interviews. His 25th interview finally resulted in a job offer.

Brad’s openness about having Tourette Syndrome, as well as his easy-going manner and gentle humor, quickly won over his young students. In addition to the standard curriculum, the students learned valuable lessons in understanding and tolerance. At the end of the year, Brad was named Georgia’s outstanding first-year teacher.

Oscar winner Peter Werner (Why I Wore Lipstick to My Mastectomy) directed from a script by Tom Rickman (whose screenplay for Tuesdays with Morrie won a Humanitas Prize and Writers Guild Award; the film won six Emmys, including Outstanding Movie). Andrew Gottlieb (The Russell Girl) is the producer; Brent Shields (Sweet Nothing in My Ear) and Tim Shriver (Amistad) are the executive producers.

— Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc.