Science Fair (2018)

How sad is this?

Best movie ever!

Absolutely the worst movie.

Like the great film, it's made with a great deal of visible affection both in front of and behind the camera.

I admit I went to the sold out screening of this movie because it featured students at my daughter's high school in Louisville, one of which is the daughter of my friend. I am so happy I did. What a wonderful, well-made film and story. I found myself tearing up more than once, and laughing out loud many times, even clapping a couple of times - certainly not the expectation I went in with. It was truly an entertaining and enjoyable 90 minutes. Kudos to Cristina, Darren and Jeff for this gift. And students - you were awesome! Waiting for the sequel.

This documentary focuses on a variety of students from different schools and countries as they try to qualify for the international science fair, which is akin to the Oscars for young science boffins. This isn't lightweight stuff, these youngsters are involved in proper high-level science projects from micro cameras that can tell if a burger is fully cooked to cancer prevention, by way of new improved aeroplane designs and artificial intelligence systems. When you watch this, don't be alarmed if these kids make you feel inferior. When I was 14 I wasn't developing systems to interpret brain waves, I think I was probably playing Jet Set Willy 2.This film works so very well for me because I found myself cheering on every single one of these young people. They all come from slightly different backgrounds and have different elements which make them likeable and fascinating. From the youngsters from a very poor Brazilian small town, to the little fella who created a calculator that generated Shakespearean insults (e.g. 'thou art an unwashed puckart'), to the New York teacher who has created a conveyor belt of scientific excellence in her school, to the young lass who unashamedly declares that she is a gift to the world (she actually is, by the way). There is a large selection of great characters making this one both inspiring but also somewhat moving. It makes you realise that the world is - at least partially - going to be in good hands in the future.

The reviewer said this was the worst film at Sundance and misunderstood why audience members would cry at this film must lack basic human emotion. A truly uplifting, passionate, and intelligently crafted narrative that expertly explores the Intel science fair and the diverse lives of some of the children involved. I highly recommend it!

This is a beautiful tribute to the world of international science fairs and the high school students who participate in them. Following 9 students from around the world, the film gives viewers a glimpse into their lives as they navigate the challenges, disappointments, and unbridled joys of this unique experience - as a viewer you really come to care SO much about each of these nine teenagers. We saw the film at Sundance and every member of the audience was engaged throughout the entire film - laughing, crying, clapping - and a standing ovation from the entire theater at the end of the film. It was an utter joy to watch - highly recommended!