Films about schools show us how a value system is passed from one generation to another. These films can directly impact how we view and question schools and their teachers. Most of those remembered are filmed in the cinema verite style, from Wiseman’s classical High School (1968) to Longinotto’s student film Pride of Place (1976). The observational documentary gives the audience a direct insight and closeness to the characters, witnessing the real-life trouble and challenges of the students without seemingly being manipulated by commentaries and interviews.
Neasa Ní Chianáin applies this observational style in her latest films, School Life (2016) which she co-directed with David Rane and now Young Plato. In both films, she focuses on uniquely gifted educators who make a fundamental change in the students’ lives for the better.
Hostile environments
In Young Plato, the main character is Kevin McArevey, school principal at Holy Cross Boys’ Primary in Ardoynbe, North Belfast. What makes Young Plato truly interesting is that the school is located in a rather . . .
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