
A vibrant and unconventional hairdresser, Rita, enrolls in an adult education course and forms a surprising connection with her tutor, the jaded and cynical Dr. Bryant. As Rita’s intellectual curiosity blossoms, she inspires Bryant to rediscover his love of literature and teaching. However, their evolving relationship faces complications when Rita's husband grapples with her increasing independence and pursuit of knowledge, creating tension within their marriage.
Does Educating Rita have end credit scenes?
No!
Educating Rita does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.
Explore the complete cast of Educating Rita, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.
Discover where to watch Educating Rita online, including streaming platforms, rental options, and official sources. Compare reviews, ratings, and in-depth movie information across sites like IMDb, TMDb, Wikipedia or Rotten Tomatoes.
See how Educating Rita is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where Educating Rita stands among top-rated movies in its genre.
54
Metascore
7.0
User Score
81%
TOMATOMETER
81%
User Score
Challenge your knowledge of Educating Rita with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.
What is Rita's real name?
Rita
Susan
Sarah
Rebecca
Show hint
Discover all the awards and nominations received by Educating Rita, from Oscars to film festival honors. Learn how Educating Rita and its cast and crew have been recognized by critics and the industry alike.
The 56th Academy Awards 1984
Writing (Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium)
37th British Academy Film Awards 1984
Best Actress in a Supporting Role
Best Adapted Screenplay
41st Golden Globe Awards 1984
Best Screenplay
Read the complete plot summary of Educating Rita, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.
In a world that often stifles individuality, Susan, who prefers to be called Rita, is a spirited 26-year-old hairdresser, feeling ensnared in a tedious routine. The thought of settling into motherhood unnerves her, making her believe it could tether her to a monotonous life she’s desperate to flee. Instead, she craves something deeper, although what exactly that entails remains unclear. In pursuit of intellectual freedom, Rita decides to enroll in a literature course at Open University.
Her assigned tutor, Frank Bryant, is a disillusioned and self-deprecating man who has succumbed to the solace of alcohol, often referring to himself as “an appalling teacher.” Despite his initial doubts about Rita’s capabilities in the academic landscape, her exuberant enthusiasm and natural talent—despite her limited education—gradually rekindle Frank’s waning passion for literature. As the story unfolds, Frank grows to appreciate Rita’s infectious energy and genuine desire for knowledge, which prompts him to reassess his own outlook on life.
As Rita immerses herself in Frank’s literary world, she blossoms with newfound confidence and embraces a bohemian lifestyle. However, as she becomes more adept in the academic environment, Frank’s cynicism and bitterness surge back. He becomes troubled by her embrace of the pretentiousness he once loathed. The narrative takes a darker turn when a close friend’s suicide attempt shakes Rita, leading her to confront the superficial and deceitful elements of the social circles she has come to admire.
As the film reaches its conclusion, Frank departs for Australia on a sabbatical, stepping away from the constraints of his old life and welcoming the potential for change in his journey ahead.
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