In Belfast’s Ardoyne housing estates, a maverick Elvis-loving primary school headmaster invokes the wisdom of the ancient Greek philosophers to restore hope in the heart of a battered community. Kevin McArevey is determined to change fortunes of an inner-city community plagued by urban decay, sectarian aggression, drugs and poverty. McArevey and his dedicated team illustrate how philosophy can encourage children to question the mythologies of war and violence and challenge the narratives of their families, peers and socio-economic status. Young Plato is an open and warm-hearted documentary about teaching children to live beyond the boundaries and limitations imposed on us.
This presentation will conclude with a post-screening Q&A recording featuring IFF’s Enda Murray interviewing the filmmakers.
BROWSE MORE IRISH FILM FESTIVAL TITLES
WINNER – Human Rights Film Award, Dublin International Film Festival 2022
WINNER – Social Impact Award, Greenwich International Film Festival 2022
WINNER – Best Feature Documentary, Irish Film and Television Awards 2022
"The school is no more dysfunctional than any other institution and a lot more intelligent and self-questioning than many. A very engaging film."
- Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian
"Encouraging children to avoid conflict has a particular relevance in Belfast of course, but I’d be happy to see McArevey’s methods used in schools everywhere."
- Edward Porter, Sunday Times
Thursday 25th August
102 min
PG
Kevin McArevey, Jan-Marie Reel
Declan McGrath, Neasa Ní Chianáin
Film Festival
Palace Electric
