Joe Clark (Morgan Freeman), an unorthodox ex-teacher, returns to the inner city school where he was fired some years earlier as its new principal. Finding the school run-down, full of apathetic students and facing a major drug problem, Clark dedicates himself to making drastic changes to improve the students' lives. But, his arrogant and tyrannical methods cause problems with city officials that may undo all of the progress he has made. Directed by John G. Avildsen. With Beverly Todd, Robert Guillaume, Michael Beach and Ethan Phillips. Categories: Drama. Year: 1989.
John G. Avildsen in Lean on Me
Following his win at the All-Valley Karate Tournament, Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) accompanies his teacher and friend, Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita), as he travels to Okinawa to visit his dying father and confront a bitter old rival. Once in Japan, Daniel again finds that having feelings for a beautiful girl often leads to trouble. This time, the fight is for real and Daniel-san will have to prove that he has what it takes when honor is on the line. Directed by John G. Avildsen. With Martin Kove, Danny Kamekona, Tamlyn Tomita, Nobu McCarthy and Yuji Okumoto. Categories: Action, Family, Romance, Sports. Year: 1986.
John G. Avildsen in The Karate Kid, Part II
After moving from New Jersey to California with his mother (Randee Heller), Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) has trouble fitting in at a new school. Things start to look up when he meets a girl named Ali (Elisabeth Shue), but only until her ex-boyfriend, Johnny (William Zabka), and his group of karate goons begin to harass Daniel every time they see him. Seeking a way to defend himself, Daniel eventually meets Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita), a wise master who trains Daniel by making him do chores. Seeking to put an end to his feud with Johnny, Daniel convinces Mr. Miyagi to prepare him for a karate tournament, where Daniel's training will be put to the test. Directed by John G. Avildsen. With Martin Kove. Categories: Action, Drama, Family, Sports, Cult Classics. Year: 1984.
John G. Avildsen in The Karate Kid
Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone), a slightly dimwitted, kind-hearted amateur boxer, rises out of Philadelphia's toughest neighborhood to earn a shot at fighting for the heavyweight championship of the world. During his training, Rocky finds love in the arms of the shy, reclusive Adrian (Talia Shire), who works in the local pet store. Rocky must push himself to the limit and overcome self-doubt to prove he deserves to stand in the ring with undefeated heavyweight champion Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers). Directed by John G. Avildsen. With Burt Young and Burgess Meredith. Categories: Action, Drama, Sports. Year: 1976.
John G. Avildsen in Rocky