We Are the Dream: The Kids of the Oakland MLK Oratorical Fest
We Are the Dream: The Kids of the Oakland MLK Oratorical Fest

- NR
- 58m
- 2020
Every year in Oakland, CA, hundreds of pre-K through 12th grade students compete in the Martin Luther King Oratorical Festival, performing a mix of published and original poetry and speeches. Directed and produced by Emmy® winner Amy Schatz, and produced by Emmy® winner Diane Kolyer, this documentary chronicles the months leading up to the finals of the 40th annual festival, as schools across the city send their top-placing individuals and groups to compete in the event. Showcasing a multitude of talented and diverse student voices, the 57-minute film follows the contestants from rehearsals at home and in their classrooms through district semifinals and, ultimately, to the finals where they perform in front of hundreds, speaking from the heart and paying tribute to the legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
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Common Sense Media
Common Sense Says
Docu about kids living MLK's legacy gives all the feels.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that We Are the Dream: The Kids of the Oakland MLK Oratorical Fest is an inspiring documentary that's a great choice for families to watch together. The assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. is mentioned, as well as police brutality against Black people in the past and present. Themes of prejudice and racism are present throughout, though the documentary strikes a hopeful tone about young people being able to effect change. The participating kids demonstrate the value of hard work and living with conviction, and their performances and backstories are nothing short of inspirational.
A Lot or A Little?
The parents’ guide to what’s in this movie.
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Additional Info
- Genre:Documentary, Family
- Release Date:August 16, 2020
- Languages:English
- Captions:English
- Audio Format:5.1
- Screen Pass Eligible:Yes
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