Navigating U.S. Citizenship’s Challenges

Read Time:3 Minute, 44 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Test
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Genre: Documentary, Short
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 15m
Director(s): Claudia Myers, Laura Waters Hinson
Where To Watch: showing at the 2024 Cleveland International Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: From the opening scenes, THE TEST captivates with its narrative of aspiration and the tangible bonds of community support. Directors Claudia Myers and Laura Waters Hinson have crafted a moving portrayal of Eric Frimpong, a Ghanaian seeking the American dream through the labyrinth of citizenship, backed by the surprising friendship of an unlikely duo of Jill and Carl Miller. Ultimately, the film's most significant stepping stone is that it’s a surface-level story. This should be a feature-length documentary (and maybe it will be someday), but in its current format, we just don’t get enough of this journey; it feels like we’re on fast forward throughout the entire 15-minute runtime, and in doing so, we miss some vital key moments.

THE TEST opens a window for a sneak peek into Frimpong's dedicated pursuit to secure a future in the U.S., detailing the grueling preparation for the citizenship test with the help of two friends. This documentary goes beyond the personal, touching on the collective experience of immigrants facing the bureaucratic challenges of becoming part of this country. The citizenship test, a demanding gateway filled with historical and governmental queries (that most citizens wouldn’t be able to pass,) mirrors the broader barriers many immigrants encounter.

The film examines the heartfelt, crucial support systems for immigrants like Eric. Showcasing his use of varied USCIS resources—from elementary reading materials to advanced digital tools—underscores the necessity for robust educational aids in this challenging journey. The directors balance the narrative between Eric's stakes and the broader socio-cultural issues, enriching the discourse on immigration with each frame. Sidenote: can you imagine doing everything in your power just to survive daily and then having the daunting task of this test and all the prep required dumped on your plate as well?

THE TEST delves into the enriching relationships between Eric and his mentors, Jill and Carl. Their contribution goes beyond mere tutoring, providing him a sense of family and belonging as he navigates his path to citizenship. This intergenerational support highlights the documentary's core message: community solidarity can profoundly impact individuals facing the daunting naturalization process.

Despite its compelling narrative, THE TEST is not without its limitations. The film's brief runtime restricts deeper exploration into the intricate details of the characters’ pasts and the implications of immigration policies, leaving some areas less fleshed out than they might deserve. Nonetheless, it effectively stirs conversation about the value of inclusivity and community support in overcoming the hurdles immigrants face.

By focusing on such intimate human stories, THE TEST invites viewers to reflect on the significant societal issues of immigration, aging, and integration. Eric's journey exemplifies the broader experiences of many immigrants, making a solid case for empathy and understanding across cultural divides.

While THE TEST could benefit from an extended duration to deepen its thematic exploration, it remains a powerful narrative in the conversation about immigration and societal integration. This film narrates and engages its audience in a more extensive dialogue about empathy, policy, and the collective responsibility toward a more inclusive society.

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[photo courtesy of DREAMSTONE PICTURES, IMAGE BEARER PICTURES]

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