Waiting For Superman is as good of a documentary I have ever seen. The story focuses on the American public school system - its flaws, its champions, teachers, parents, students. Like any great piece of non-fiction film making, its powerful because it somehow manages to connect the audience with it's subjects, in this case, middle school students just hoping for a proper education.I was surprised at two things when watching the film. First, how easily the information was presented. Walking in I was somewhat intimidated and possibly even put off by the subject matter. How interesting could learning about schools really be? In all honesty it was engrossing. Ideas are presented clearly and concisely with animation used to help drive in certain points. It was in that regard a very visual story. Second, the decision to focus the story on a handful of students was perfect in regards to the topic. As we learn about the flaws and problems children face in school, we are presented with actual children - kids and their parents trying their hardest to rise up and become successful by any means possible.
As fascinating as the documentary was to watch, ultimately its focus was on our country as a whole. We are raised to believe that America is 'the land of opportunity,' but after watching this I began having second thoughts. Not to spoil anything, but when a little girl who wants to grow up to become a doctor can't simply because her name wasn't pulled out of a hat, then something is wrong. How is it that years and years of political focus on reforming our educational system has had practically no effect at all?
I haven't seen any other documentary made this year yet, but I am almost positive this will remain the best I will see. Go see it immediately!
(Awards potential: Best Documentary, Best Original Song ('Shine'))
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