We are nothing if we cannot read.
When the Kenyan government introduces free education for all Kimani Maruge, an 84 year old village elder and Mau Mau veteran, sees the opportunity to have the education he has so long been denied - even if it means sitting alongside 6 year olds. Having fought and suffered to liberate his country. Maruge feels his country owes him.
Together with head teacher Jane Obinchu, he faces fierce opposition from parents and officials reluctant to see a precious school place wasted on an old man. Full of vitality and humour, The First Grader tells the uplifting story of one man's struggle to overcome the demons of his past through the power of education.
Starring:
Naomie Harris, Oliver Litondo, Vusi Kunene, Tony Kgoroge, Israel Makoe
Director:
Justin Chadwick
Producers:
Richard Harding, Sam Feuer, David M. Thompson
Screenplay:
Ann Peacock
Executive Producers:
Norman Merry, Joe Oppenheimer, Ed Rubin, Anant Singh, Helena Spring
Sales agent:
Distributor:
Credits summary:
Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ and UKFC present in association with Videovision and Lip Sync A Sixth Sense/Origin Pictures Production A Justin Chadwick Film
Certificate:
12A
Running time:
102 mins
Released:
24 June 2011
In cinemas:
24 June 2011