Approaching the Elephant
APPROACHING THE ELEPHANT dives head first into the inaugural year of the Teddy McArdle Free School in New Jersey, where all classes are voluntary and rules are determined by vote – adults and children have an equal say. Director Amanda Rose Wilder is there from the beginning to end of the school year, documenting and observing founder Alex Khost and an indelible cast of outspoken young personalities as they form relationships, explore their surroundings and intensely debate rule violations, until it all comes to a head.
Beautifully shot, unsettling to watch @Doc Doyle
As an educator, I found the topic of this documentary interesting - throughout the duration of the film I was completely unsettled and fascinated by what unravelled.
Great film. Riveting and insightful look at the lives of young people. @Dennisacharles
Full disclosure, my kids are in this film. They loved going to the school and got a lot from the experience. The film is poignant and insightful, and builds to a great climax. It is highly recommended, one of the most moving documentaries I've ever seen.