Young Plato

Director: Declan McGrath, Neasa Ní Chianáin

Stars: Kevin McArevey, Jan-Marie Reel

Duration: 102 mins

Language: English

Genre: Documentary

Rating: M

Original Release: March 18 2022 (Ireland)

In Belfast’s Ardoyne housing estates, a maverick Elvis-loving primary school headmaster invokes the wisdom of the ancient Greek philosophers to restore hope in the heart of a battered community. 

Kevin McArevey is determined to change fortunes of an inner-city community plagued by urban decay, sectarian aggression, drugs and poverty. McArevey and his dedicated team illustrate how philosophy can encourage children to question the mythologies of war and violence and challenge the narratives of their families, peers and socio-economic status.

Young Plato is an open and warm-hearted documentary about teaching children to live beyond the boundaries and limitations imposed on us. 

 

WINNER – Human Rights Film Award, Dublin International Film Festival 2022

 

WINNER – Social Impact Award, Greenwich International Film Festival 2022

 

WINNER – Best Feature Documentary, Irish Film and Television Awards 2022

 

“The school is no more dysfunctional than any other institution and a lot more intelligent and self-questioning than many. A very engaging film.” – Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian

“Encouraging children to avoid conflict has a particular relevance in Belfast of course, but I’d be happy to see McArevey’s methods used in schools everywhere.” – Edward Porter, Sunday Times

 

Watch the trailer here: