Saturday, May 28, 2011

The First Grader - Movie Review


The First Grader is based on the true story of 84-year old farmer who decides to go to school when the government announces free education for all. Oliver Litondo plays Maruge, an old man who was a former Mau Mau tribesman, who goes to the new school to be enrolled. After being turned away several times due to some reason or another, the school authorities let him in. The teacher, Jane Obinchu (Naomie Harris) sees Maruge's determination to learn how to read and starts helping him after school hours.

Set in Kenya, the movie shows some history in flashbacks of Maruge suffering in the British prison camps. Litondo and Harris does amazing jobs of portraying the characters, showing the deep passion they have to their country and education. The First Grader is a truly inspiring film and goes to show you are never too old to learn.

The First Grader comes out in theatres in Canada June 3rd.

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