ALL OF THE ABOVE played at SBIFF (Santa Barbara International Film Festival), and I had the opportunity to see an early look. Here’s my spoiler-free take:
ALL OF THE ABOVE was a daring documentary. Students from all religious backgrounds were exposed to a class covering world religions. It was a thought-provoking film that didn’t preach the gospel but just gave viewers the facts, allowing oodles of knowledge to enter our stagnant, stereotyped brains. The film’s director, Sharon Walsh, deliberately chose high school seniors as the guinea pigs for this incredible project.
As a former high school teacher for 35 years, I relished hearing the powerful, mature comments. The young people involved found new confidence in themselves. They learned how to trust their opinions and listen to those around them. The parents gained insight and knowledge as well. It was extremely successful in my mind, but it would be hard to implement in several regions of our country. This class would be controversial and open too many cans of protest. What a shame. Our worlds could grow more connected, if only…
The film felt like the audience was a part of the world religion class. This was due to Walsh’s steady, tight hand in not wavering through the muck of preaching in place of teaching. This made a huge difference. These eighteen-year-old students will never look at their community the same again. Sometimes all this world needs are baby steps. ALL OF THE ABOVE demonstrates there can be a better answer to blind, ignorant hatred.
ALL OF THE ABOVE had its world premiere at SBIFF on Fri 2/6 – 9:00 AM.
