Eight competitors vie for the title at the 1999 Scripps National Spelling Bee, with one speller winning by correctly spelling "logorrhea."
“Everyone wants the last word.”
Synopsis
Eight competitors vie for the title at the 1999 Scripps National Spelling Bee, with one speller winning by correctly spelling "logorrhea."
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Synopsis
Nupur Lala stands among the competitors at the 1999 Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. She spells "logorrhea" to win the championship. The film follows eight spellers, including Angela Arenivar and Ted Brigham, as they prepare for the intense competition. Each participant faces unique challenges and pressures. The documentary captures their journeys through the rounds of the bee, revealing personal stories and sacrifices made by the spellers and their families. It presents a detailed look at the world of competitive spelling.
What Critics Say
One of the best documentaries of the year. These kids study up to eight hours a day, memorizing words they may never hear, write or use.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Meet spellers like Nupur Lala and Angela Arenivar.
- Find out how spelling bees shape young lives.
- See the emotional highs and lows of competition.
Did You Know
- Nupur Lala won the 1999 Scripps National Spelling Bee by spelling 'logorrhea'.
- Angela Arenivar won the 1999 Bee with the word 'crocodilian'.
- Ted Brigham was eliminated in the second round after misspelling 'distractible'.
- The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2003.
- In 2007, the film was ranked #4 in the IDA's Top 25 Documentaries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 1999 Scripps National Spelling Bee?
Nupur Lala won the 1999 Scripps National Spelling Bee by spelling the word 'logorrhea'.
What word did Angela Arenivar misspell in the 1999 Bee?
Angela Arenivar misspelled 'heleoplankton' in the third round of the 1999 Bee.
What award was Spellbound nominated for?
Spellbound was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
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