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Class of ’27 cover image

Class of ’27 2016

Highly Recommended

Distributed by Lost Nation Pictures, 1300 Soldiers Field Road, Boston, MA 02135; 978-204-8935
Produced by James Rutenbeck, Dustinn Craig, and Nina Alvarez
Directed by James Rutenbeck
DVD , color, 60 min.



College - General Adult
Early Childhood Education, Education, Poverty, Social Problems, Sociology

Date Entered: 09/20/2017

Reviewed by Margaret M. Reed, Riley-Hickingbotham Library, Ouachita Baptist University, Arkadelphia, AR

James Rutenbeck’s unique ability to transport audiences into the forgotten world of rural America is the hallmark of his many award-winning films. Class of ’27 is no exception.

Rutenbeck and fellow filmmakers Dustinn Craig and Nina Alvarez journey to three remote places to tell the stories of communities struggling to raise the next generation amid seemingly insurmountable odds. All three locations – Owsley County, Kentucky; White Earth Nation, Minnesota; and Willamette Valley, Oregon – combat their economic and social ills with one of society’s most effective remedies – education, particularly early childhood education. The film highlights the tireless efforts of teachers, parents, and grandparents who desire a better life and future for their children, steering them onward to high school graduation in 2027.

Visually, Class of ’27 effectively conveys the hardships of each community against a backdrop of lush rural landscapes and childhood innocence. These contrasts resonate the struggle and the promise of their circumstances. Moving and insightful, Class of ’27 is a compelling reminder that hope and the human spirit can overcome life’s most difficult challenges no matter the place.

In 2016, Class of ’27 premiered on public television’s WorldChannel as part of the America ReFramed social documentary series. It was also an editor’s pick at The Atlantic and an official selection at the Independent Film Festival of Boston.

Highly recommended for all libraries, Class of ’27 is an excellent resource for education and sociology courses. The film’s engagement guide is a helpful professional development and discussion tool for educators.

Awards

  • Alfred I. duPont Columbia Award, 2018