We Are Poets follows six remarkable teenage poets from Leeds Young Authors as they are chosen to represent the UK at Brave New Voices: the most prestigious poetry slam competition in the USA. From their inner city lives on the red bricked backstreets of North England, to a stage in front of the White House in Washington DC, the poets explosively lay bare the concerns of their generation as they take on the world and prepare for a transformational journey of a lifetime.
Cinematic, imaginative and deeply personal, We Are Poets is a moving testament to the power of creativity, community and the dynamism of young people. Anyone tempted to dismiss today’s youth as politically apathetic better pay heed: here is electrifying evidence to the contrary.
The event will be hosted by the incredibly talented and internationally recognised poet Benjamin Zephaniah, who is an amazing advocate of the film.
Presented in association with Access Moving Image and Leeds Young Authors.
“A group of young poets travel to America to a poetry slam, an inspirational journey and a fresh new look on modern poetry and young people.” – Gage, MediaFish
“A well put together documentary which anyone in Leeds can relate to and be inspired by.” – Jamie, MediaFish
“Lyrical, inspirational and ultra-cool…a brilliant story and a milestone in breaking down stereotypes” – I-D Magazine
“From its utterly brilliant opening, through to its moving finale, ‘We Are Poets’ is inspirational! – Sheffield Doc Fest
“Amazing…it’s poetry itself. Poetry is an art, filmmaking is an art, it takes great sensitivity to bring them together – this film shows us how it’s done!” – Benjamin Zephaniah
See Also: Being Elmo: A Puppeteer’s Journey,
See if you like: Spellbound, Hoop Dreams, Take the Lead, Bring It On
Benjamin Zephaniah:
Zephaniah won the BBC Young Playwright’s Award and has been awarded honorary doctorates by a number of universities including the University of North London, Exeter and Birmingham. He was listed in The Times‘ list of 50 greatest post-war writers.
As well as writing peotry he has released several albums of original music and describes himself as a “Rasta Folkie”.
Find out more about Benjamin at http://www.benjaminzephaniah.com/content/kidz.php
