Half Nelson is a 2006 drama film directed by Ryan Fleck. The film stars Ryan Gosling as Dan Dunne, a dedicated and passionate junior-high school teacher who is struggling with addiction to cocaine. Dunne's addiction is not immediately apparent to his students, who are enamored with his unconventional teaching style and his ability to inspire them to think critically about the world around them.
One of the students in Dunne's class is Drey, played by Shareeka Epps. Drey is a bright and talented young woman who is dealing with her own set of problems at home. Her father is in jail, and she is living with her working-class mother and younger brother in a low-income housing project. When Drey discovers that Dunne is a drug addict, she is initially shocked and appalled. But instead of reporting him to the authorities, she decides to try to help him.
The bond between Dunne and Drey becomes a crucial part of the film, as they form an unlikely friendship that is based on their shared sense of struggle and their desire to overcome their respective challenges. Dunne sees himself in Drey, and wants to help her achieve her full potential. Drey, in turn, looks up to Dunne as a mentor and a role model.
As the film progresses, Dunne's addiction continues to spiral out of control, and he finds himself increasingly unable to hide his secret from those around him. Drey becomes his confidant, and their relationship deepens into something more complicated and emotionally charged than either of them initially expected.
Half Nelson is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the complicated lives of two deeply flawed individuals. It is a nuanced and realistic portrayal of addiction, poverty, and the challenges faced by those who are trying to help themselves and others. Directed with sensitivity and insight by Fleck, and anchored by powerful performances from Gosling and Epps, Half Nelson is a truly unforgettable film.