America’s Struggle With Equity in Focus

Read Time:3 Minute, 51 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Admissions Granted
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): Miao Wang, Hao Wu
Where To Watch: premiering June 30, 2024 at 9 PM ET on MSNBC

RAVING REVIEW: As the interviews throughout the film spotlight one of the most hotly debated topics in the United States, ADMISSIONS GRANTED slices through the dense fog of legal and societal quandaries with precision and intrigue. This documentary intricately examines the case of Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, revealing the deep-seated tensions and aspirations of a nation striving to reconcile its commitment to justice and equality. Directors Hao Wu and Miao Wang navigate through these complex waters, crafting a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is enlightening. While I appreciated the film, the purely balanced approach leaves the viewer feeling that the team behind it was noncommittal after the credits roll.

Edward Blum stands at the narrative's core, celebrated by some and rightfully vilified for his quest to reshape affirmative action policies. ADMISSIONS GRANTED paints a detailed portrait of Blum, highlighting his influence as both a catalyst for change and a controversial character in the evolving landscape of American jurisprudence. The film captures the dualities of his mission, providing a deep dive into the intricate dance of policy-making and its tangible impacts on society.

The directors bring viewers into the heart of the action with a series of dynamic interviews and vivid animations that pull back the curtain on the strategic battles and emotional investments that fuel the SFFA v. Harvard case. By integrating the insights of academics such as Jeannie Suk Gersen and Natasha Warikoo, the documentary underscores the significance of racial diversity in educational settings and the potential perils of a purely merit-based system.

ADMISSIONS GRANTED goes beyond the courtroom to explore the sweeping implications of the Supreme Court's decisions, suggesting their potential to reshape diversity, equity, and inclusion across multiple sectors. The film connects these judicial outcomes to broader debates about the reach and relevance of affirmative action, extending into realms like employment and contractual dealings.

One of the documentary's most compelling aspects is its focus on the Asian American community, portrayed at the epicenter of these policy shifts. The film candidly explores the varied reactions within the community, weaving a rich exploration of personal narratives from trial witnesses and activists that illustrate the profound personal and communal impacts of these legal decisions.

With a skilled blend of verité footage, archival material, and other sequences, the directors aim to balance advocacy and objective storytelling. This methodological approach broadens the appeal of ADMISSIONS GRANTED and reinforces its arguments, making the complex themes accessible and engaging for a diverse audience. Ultimately, this is a solid introduction for those unfamiliar with the case or the actions of the Supreme Court.

ADMISSIONS GRANTED taps directly into the pulse of current national conversations about race and equality. The film does more than recount a legal skirmish; it serves as a springboard for deeper contemplation and discussion about the paths forward for America's social policies.

ADMISSIONS GRANTED is an essential resource for anyone eager to delve into the nuances of affirmative action in today's America. The documentary invites its audience to ponder the future of racial policies in a nation still striving to define its ideals of equality and justice. It informs and challenges viewers to rethink what equity truly means in a society attempting to balance its historical legacies against its aspirations for a fairer future.

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[photo courtesy of MSNBC FILMS]

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