Premiere Date: September 12, 2006
Synopsis
Devon, Montrey, Richard, and Romesh are just at that age — 12 and 13 years old — when boys start to become men. But in their hometown of Baltimore, one of the country’s most poverty-stricken cities for inner-city residents, African-American boys have a very high chance of being incarcerated or killed before they reach adulthood. The boys are offered an amazing opportunity in the form of the Baraka school, a project founded to break the cycle of violence through an innovative education program that literally removed young boys from low-performing public schools and unstable home environments. They travel with their classmates to rural Kenya in East Africa, where a teacher-student ratio of one to five, a strict disciplinary program and a comprehensive curriculum form the core of their new educational program. The Boys of Baraka follows along with their journey, and examines each boy’s transformation during this remarkable time. Winner of awards at the Newport, Chicago, Woodstock and SILVERDOCS Film Festivals. A co-presentation with the Independent Television Service (ITVS). Produced in association with P.O.V./American Documentary.
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Film Update
September 12, 2006
Critical Acclaim
In a city plagued by poverty where African-American boys are left behind more often than other children, a film documenting the unusual education of four has inspired the mayor to seek solutions to Baltimore's educational problems.”
— Emma Daly
The New York Times
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Reviews & Reactions
Average Review
| based on 12 reviews
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I have recently viewed this film and I think that it was great. It kind of makes me sad when i see boys who want to be something but do not have the right guidance. I give this film two thumbs up.
by ?
June 9, 2009, 12:45 PM
Wonderful
I loved this film. I saw it a couple of years ago and still wonder about the lives of these young people. I encourage everyone I know to saee it.
by Larry
July 9, 2009, 1:48 PM
A MUST SEE
What a fascinating documentary. The boys are very interesting. You are able to witness their capabilities, their drive and how life is holding them back. This film is worth telling your friends and family about. Hopefully, one day there will be more avenues of support for kids to get a new chance at life. I'd love to read an update one day and see the future holds a happy ending for these kids.
by Nancy
July 23, 2009, 11:16 PM
eye opening
A very emotional documentary. Definately one to tell others about! I am australian aboriginal. If there is anywhere in the world that would give these kids just as much hope as well as a cross cultural experience while being very safe, then I would recommend one of the many indigenous schools in australia (these schools are not just for indigenous aussies). There are schools in the outback as well as city areas.
by Urs
July 27, 2009, 1:41 AM
Great story about a great program.
But I'm insulted by the subtitles. The school gets 5 stars for giving these young men a chance to get out of their world and experience the greater world around them. The documentary is storytelling par excellence, but the subtitles get 1. Are young Black men that alien to P.O.V.'s audience?
by Kyiakhalid Ruiz
July 29, 2009, 1:56 AM
it's is 2009 i just saw this picture for the first time in my college psycology class i had never heard of the movie it really move me i wish everyone of those boys or young ne the best in life
by vince hawkins
July 30, 2009, 7:09 PM
REAL LIFE REALITY
I THINK THIS WAS A GREAT DOCUMENTARY AND THAT EVERY YOUNG BOY SHOULD VIEW IT NO MATTER IF THEY ARE STUGGLING OR NOT BECAUSE IT SHOWS HOW YOUR LIFE SITUATIONS CAN CHANGE AT ANYTIME AND THAT LIFE IS NOT ALWAYS EASY WE ALL HAVE TO STRUGGLE ONE WAY OR ANOTHER SOME JUST HARDER THAN OTHERS.....
by his mrs
August 3, 2009, 10:17 PM
Wonderful Program
This film was very emotional....I find it so nice haw people are giving kids the chance to become something in life.A really big thanks to all,im really happy with what you guys have done.
by BRYANT from BRONX, N.Y.
October 4, 2009, 4:39 AM
Today I finished screening this documentary to my 9th grade Special Education students at Vaux High School in Philadelphia. I wanted to show it because they come from a similar situation and I wanted them to reflect on the importance of education. I thought seeing it through these boys would allow them to step away from their own situations and make better longterm decisions. I think it's working. My students actually sat down and were quiet and were attentive all at once! It was amazing to see my students talking out of turn ONLY because they were so eager to comment on the film. I love this documentary and I highly recommend using it as an educational tool in the classroom.
by Colleen from Philadelphia, PA
October 9, 2009, 2:41 PM
Touching
This film interests me a lot. Its very enlightening to see young children living in those surroundings and wanting to succeed. I could only hope that there are more schools like this one to help our at risk children in America. I am pleased that my college professor brought this film into my life.
by Amanda Mosher from Boston, MA
October 29, 2009, 9:16 AM
I am Montrey Mooew
This is an excellant movie true, but there are many pieces of the film that leaves the viewers on the edge of their seat. for all people who see this comment feel free to email me at montrey_23@yahoo.com
by montrey moore from baltimore, maryland
November 5, 2009, 4:57 PM
I watched this film twice and it touched my heart
This film has touched my life. I was born and raised in Baltimore and know that this film is not exaggerating just for publicity. I am sure there were many clips left out considering it was filmed over a 2 year period. These 4 boys have a place in my heart. Montrey, I hope you are doing well. The inspiring words you spoke through out the film, and watching you grow, I could see your inner strength. I know it is hard moving forward when poverty, drugs, and violence surrounds you, but it is not impossible. Please email me and let me know how you are doing. Richard, throughout the film, I referred to you as my son. You touched my heart in a way that made the blood run hot in my veins. I wanted you to succeed so bad. You were so determined not to be a statistic. With constant let downs and empty promises, I watched your dreams begin to diminish. I was deeply saddened and wanted to reach through the TV and and grab you and say please Richard don't give up. You can still do this! I would like an update on your life and I am hoping and praying for the best. Either way, please email me. Rakesh, I tried to get an update on you and found out you dropped out of school and moved in with a friend. My hopes for you as a smart young man were so high. I just knew you would overcome lifes challenges and be very successful. Rakesh, once you give up there's nothing to look forward to. Let those words help you in your battle. If things are rough for you right now, just know that it's not too late. I didn't change my life around until I was 25. If I hadn't, i might be dead today. I also hold you close to my heart and wish you the best. Devon, you are a living testimony to many people. You overcame poverty, and the hell in Baltimore City and now using your experiences to help others in their journey. You are living proof that there is a God and he will prevail in the end and He has the final decision. Keep doing that great work. You are so inspiring and I applaud the strength and blind faith that you had the entire time you were struggling. You didn't let anyone stop and you kept positive influences in your life. I will keep praying for all of you. I would also like to thank you for sharing your story. I am sure you have touched many other hearts and souls. I look forward to hearing from all of you and how you are doing. Keep your heads up! I love yall! Callie
by Callie from Orlando, Fl
November 15, 2009, 5:34 PM