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Documentary backdrop image for Waiting for "Superman" (2010)
111 minPGdocumentaryWorth seeking out
6.9/ 10(148 ratings)• TMDB

Synopsis

Geoffrey Canada reflects on the challenges within the American education system as families like the Esparzas and Joneses seek admission to competitive charter schools.

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What Critics Say

Roger Ebert
Dramatizes the failure of American education in a painfully direct way, saying what is wrong and what is right.
Deep Dive

Why Watch

  • Meet Geoffrey Canada, a key figure in education reform.
  • See Michelle Rhee tackle teacher unions in D.C.
  • Follow families in a lottery for charter school spots.

Did You Know

  • The film premiered on September 24, 2010, in New York and Los Angeles.
  • During its opening weekend, it grossed $141,000 in four theaters.
  • Michelle Rhee faced backlash from teachers and unions while in office.
  • A rebuttal documentary titled 'The Inconvenient Truth Behind Waiting for Superman' was released in 2011.

Perfect For

Education reform advocatesParents of school-age childrenPolicy makers
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Frequently Asked Questions

Who directed the documentary Waiting for 'Superman'?

Waiting for 'Superman' was directed by Davis Guggenheim.

What is the main focus of Waiting for 'Superman'?

The documentary criticizes the American public education system by following students trying to gain admission to competitive charter schools.

When was Waiting for 'Superman' released in theaters?

The film premiered in the US on September 24, 2010, with a wider release beginning on October 1, 2010.

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