About We Are the Dream: The Kids of the Oakland MLK Oratorical Fest (HBO)

We Are the Dream: The Kids of the Oakland MLK Oratorical Fest is a documentary film released in 2020, produced by HBO. The film takes a close look at the annual Martin Luther King Oratorical Festival in Oakland, California where students from all backgrounds perform a mix of poems, speeches, and performances inspired by the teachings of Dr. King. The film emphasizes not only the talent of the young participants but also highlights the importance of MLK's legacy in today's generation and how it influences them.

Making / Production

The film is produced with the joint collaboration of Know Wonder and HBO. Mahershala Ali and Amatus Karim Ali were part of the team of executive producers, who put together this heartwarming documentary. The movie was directed by Emmy-winner Amy Schatz and also features top-class cinematography and captivating graphics.

Actors

• Students: A series of young students play the 'lead roles' so to speak, as themselves, by delivering emotional and powerful oratorical performances honing Dr. King's legacy.
• Teachers and Coaches: Various teachers and coaches appear throughout the film, supporting and preparing these students for the festival.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is an HBO documentary feature.
• Oscar-winning actor Mahershala Ali, a native of Oakland himself, is one of the executive producers of the film.
• The film does not only focus on the contest but delves deep into the participants' lives, their preparation process, their thoughts, and more.

Quotes

• "I have a dream....a dream deeply rooted in the American dream."
• "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."

Music, Soundtrack

• While there is no specific soundtrack, the film features a variety of stirring orations by its young participants, supported by fulfilling ambient sound experiences that engages the audience.

Despite not having information on awards, the film received positive reviews for its compelling storytelling and the raw and emotional performances of the students. It serves as a dedication to Dr. King's legacy and shows how his teachings continue to inspire the next generation. Through these kids, the dream indeed lives on.