THE FIRST GRADER Inspiring real-life tale from Kenya of one man’s fight for education May 27, 2011

In a small, remote, mountain-top primary school in the Kenyan bush, hundreds of children are jostling for a chance at the free education newly promised by the Kenyan government. One applicant causes astonishment when he knocks on the door of the school. He is Maruge (Oliver Litondo), a Mau Mau veteran in his 80s, who is desperate to learn to read at this stage of his life. He fought for the liberation of his country and now feels he must have the chance of an education so long denied—even if it means sitting in a classroom alongside 6-year-olds. Moved by his passionate plea, head teacher Jane Obinchu (Naomie Harris, 28 Days Later and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest) supports his struggle to gain admission, facing fierce opposition from parents and officials who don’t want to waste a precious school place on such an old man. Based on a true story, THE FIRST GRADER explores the remarkable relationships Maruge builds with his classmates some 80 years his junior with vitality and humor. Through Maruge's journey, we are taken back to the shocking untold story of British colonial rule 50 years earlier when Maruge fought for the freedom of his country, eventually enduring the extreme and harsh conditions of the British detention camps. Directed by Justin Chadwick (The Other Boleyn Girl) from a script by Emmy-winner Ann Peacock, THE FIRST GRADER is a heart-warming and inspiring dramatic tale of one man's fight for what he believes is his right in order to overcome the burdens of his past. It is a triumphant testimony to the transforming force of education. The film’s running time is 103 minutes; it is rated PG-13
http://www.thefirstgrader-themovie.com/
Landmark’s Shattuck Cinemas, 2230 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA (510) 464-5980
Tickets are $10.00 for general admission and $8.00 seniors and children