<Tr> <Th> Budget </Th> <Td> $750,000 </Td> </Tr> <Tr> <Th> Box office </Th> <Td> $13 million </Td> </Tr> <P> Cooley High is a 1975 American coming - of - age / drama film that follows the narrative of high school seniors and best - friends, Leroy "Preach" Jackson (Glynn Turman) and Richard "Cochise" Morris (Lawrence Hilton - Jacobs). Written by Eric Monte, directed by Michael Schultz and produced by American International Pictures (AIP), the film, primarily shot in Chicago, Illinois, was a major hit at the box offices, grossing over $13,000,000 (USD). The light - hearted turned tragic storyline captivated viewers with its comedic portrayal of carefree best - friends, and its soundtrack featured many Motown hits . </P> <P> In 1964 on Chicago's Near - North Side, Preach - an aspiring playwright - and Cochise - an all - city basketball champion - are best friends who are both celebrating the final weeks of their senior year with their classmates at Edwin G. Cooley Vocational High School . While sitting in class, Cochise sleeps while Preach comes up with the idea that Pooter, another classmate and friend should fake a nosebleed, so they can get out of class . As Preach and Pooter leave with the teacher's permission, Cochise; who's now awake, sneaks out the classroom's back door . After getting out of class, the trio meet up with another classmate who's sitting outside the school . The group then hitch a ride from school by hanging on the back of a city bus . The group end up at Lincoln Park Zoo where they spend the day stealing snacks from the concession stand and antagonizing animals . </P>

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