We Should All Go Back to School

The First Grader
2010

Everyone in the United States can go to school. How we spend our time and how much we learn, differs widely, but the opportunity is a given. When it was announced on the radio in Kenya, that “everyone was entitled to an education”, school age children rushed to register to learn. Among them, and clearly a stand out, was Margue [pronounced Ma–roo-gay]. At first the teachers refused to save a place for him, but he was determined.

Based on a true story, “The First Grader” centers around Margue, an 84 years old who wants desperately to earn to read. Every barrier that is placed in his way, he overcomes until he is finally allowed to take his place in the classroom beside the five and six year olds.

Teacher Jane (Naomie Harris) is confronted by angry parents, angrier administrators, and a husband who can’t comprehend why she is willing to sacrifice so much for this old man.

Filmed on location in Africa and using many locals in the cast, director Justin Chadwick (“The Other Boleyn Girl”) does a brilliant job capturing not only the obvious new challenges for the old man, but the shattering events from his past that reveal why he is so determined in his goal.

“The First Grader” has brief scenes of torture that may be disturbing. There are also occasional sub-titles that are small and go by quickly. (Keep the remote handy to pause.) Don’t let either of those issues keep you from watching the inspirational “The First Grader.”