In a strong directorial debut from Christopher Wong, WHATEVER IT TAKES tells the inspiring story of a South Bronx high school in its dynamic first year. In a neighborhood where educational opportunities have withered and where violence, drugs and gang activity thrive, the Bronx Center for Science & Mathematics provides a ray of hope for change. The central character is charismatic Principal Edward Tom, a young Chinese American principal in a primarily black and Latino neighborhood, who takes on this inaugural year with fierce determination. Commanding the respect of students and teachers alike, he leads his faculty and students with a combination of tenacity, uncompromised academic standards and tough love.
The film also follows Sharifea, a promising student with aspirations of attending college. Her acceptance to a Dartmouth College summer program becomes jeopardized when she is forced to become the primary caretaker for her younger siblings. Creatively working towards a solution for Sharifea is just one example of the complex landscape that Principal Tom and his faculty face as their ideals come up against the harsh challenges of reality.
This emotional journey takes viewers through the frustrations of failing students, the rigors of maintaining academic integrity in a compromised environment, and the joys from earned student triumphs. With warmth and artistic skill, director Christopher Wong presents a captivating film that boldly teaches lessons of humility and resilience. – adapted from SFIAAFF
Director Christopher Wong is scheduled to attend Oct 18 screening.
Co-presented by:
Barnard Elementary School - Chinese Magnet School
San Diego Arthouse Movies
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