Up the Down Staircase (1967)

Up the Down Staircase is a 1967 American drama film directed by Robert Mulligan. The film follows the story of Sylvia Barrett, a young teacher who is starting her first job at a New York City high school. The film is known for its frank portrayal of teenage sexuality and the struggles of young people in a changing world.

The film opens with Sylvia arriving at the school, where she is immediately confronted with the realities of teenage life. She is shocked to find that the students are openly discussing sex and relationships, and that the school is rife with sexual tension. As she navigates the school, she is exposed to a variety of sexual moments, from a student who is caught making out in the hallway to a teacher who is caught in a compromising position with a student.

The film also explores the changing attitudes towards sex in the 1960s. As Sylvia interacts with the students, she discovers that they are more open to discussing sex than she had expected. She also learns that the students are more likely to experiment with sex than their parents had been. This is exemplified in a scene where a group of students discuss their sexual experiences, and Sylvia is surprised to find that they are more open and accepting of each other than she had expected.

The film also touches on the issue of teenage pregnancy. One of the students, Mary, is pregnant and is struggling to cope with the situation. Sylvia is sympathetic to Mary's plight and helps her to find a way to deal with the situation. This scene highlights the importance of understanding and support in dealing with teenage pregnancy.

Overall, Up the Down Staircase is an important film that explores the changing attitudes towards sex in the 1960s. It is a frank and honest portrayal of teenage sexuality and the struggles of young people in a changing world. The film is an important reminder of the importance of understanding and support in dealing with teenage sexuality.