Akeelah Anderson is an 11-year-old being raised by her mother, Tanya, who was left on her own after the death of her husband. While Akeelah is a very bright girl, she's hardly a star student and seems afraid of acting like a bookworm around her friends and classmates. However, Akeelah's teacher sees genuine potential in her student and encourages her to enter the school's spelling bee, convinced Akeelah has the brains and the talent to win. Akeelah applies herself and emerges victorious in the local competition, but discovers the going gets tougher when she goes to a statewide bee, studying for the regionals under the aegis of strict English teacher Dr. Larabee, who consents to act as her coach. Meanwhile, Tanya feels intimidated when she finds the contests are dominated by children from wealthy families and privileged backgrounds, and argues that the competition may not be in Akeelah's best interest, believing instead that homework should be the one and only priority in Akeelah's life. It soon becomes apparent that if Akeelah has any intention of entering the national spelling bee championships in Washington, D.C., she will not do so with Tanya's permission or blessing.
I never thought I would have ever watched a movie about a spelling bee, much less like it. However, I was completely surprised by this film and am glad I took the time to watch it. I'll admit that I was sucked in and was rooting for the little girl to go all the way and win the spelling bee championship. Keke Palmer was excellent in this role and Laurence Fishburne brought a sense of elegance an authority to the film. The lessons learned through this movie are excellent for any kid growing up who feels different and holds their talent back so they "fit in." Even for parents, there's plenty to learn from this film including the need to support your kids and encourage their interests. Don't be turned off by the lame-sounding plot, this is one to watch.
Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars
Would I watch it again: No
Starring: Keke Palmer, Angela Bassett, Laurence Fishburne
I typically watch movies on Monday, Wednesday and Friday while riding the ACE Train from Tracy to Santa Clara. The opinions expressed are those of me, myself and I.
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