Higher Learning
Columbia Pictures | Release Date: January 11, 1995 CRITIC SCORE DISTRIBUTION
54
METASCORE
Mixed or average reviews based on 20 Critic Reviews
Positive:
7
Mixed:
12
Negative:
1
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Critic Reviews

Critic scorePublicationBy date
80
Film ThreatBrad Laidman
Higher Learning is John Singleton's interracial state of today's campuses version of School Daze minus the musical numbers. Surprisingly, it's just as much a gang movie if not more than Boyz 'n the Hood. Read full review
75
Chicago Sun-TimesRoger Ebert
Singleton's film is interesting for a lot of reasons, but especially because he stands outside this campus system and looks at it with a detached eye. Read full review
75
Rolling StonePeter Travers
Higher Learning is seriously intended and seriously flawed. Singleton tends to shout his objectives. But in an era of cop-out escapism, it is gratifying to find a filmmaker who is spoiling to be heard. Read full review
75
San Francisco ExaminerDavid Armstrong
Still, Singleton's willingness to take risks makes this a worthy, thoughtful film. Especially noteworthy: His sensitive handling of a love triangle between Kristen and her boyfriend and Kristen and another woman. Read full review
75
Christian Science MonitorDavid Sterritt
The film treats realistic subjects in a stylized way, putting its main energy into exploring ideas rather than building emotional power. [13 Jan 1995, p.B] Read full review
75
TV Guide MagazineStaff (Not Credited)
Singleton gets points for exposing the hypocrisy of "politically correct" institutions, but stilted dialogue and cardboard characterizations undermine the message. Read full review
63
ReelViewsJames Berardinelli
When this movie is quiet and introspective, it speaks with a clear voice. That insight gets muddled, however, the more forceful Singleton becomes. Read full review
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