‘Young Plato’ Doc, On Teacher Using Philosopher’s Ideas to Defuse Violence Among Troubled Kids, to Get Feature Adaptation From ‘Supernova’ Producers (EXCLUSIVE)
variety.comManori Ravindran International Editor An uplifting documentary about an Irish teacher who uses Plato’s teachings to defuse violence among his young pupils is set to be adapted into a feature film by The Bureau, the producers of “Supernova.” Directed by Neasa Ní Chianáin (“School Life”) and Declan McGrath and produced by David Rane for Soilsiú Films, “Young Plato” was recently released in U.S.
cinemas following a major 40-festival run. The film has won nine Irish and international awards, including the George Morrison Feature Documentary Award at the Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) Awards, the ICCL Human Rights on Film Award, the Special Jury Award at the Thessaloniki Film Festival, and an Honorable Mention at Greenwich IFF.
Set in the post-conflict Belfast community of Ardoyne, “Young Plato” charts the dream of Elvis-loving principal Kevin McArevey — a maverick who is determined to change the fortunes of an inner-city community plagued by urban decay and the scars of sectarian violence.
McArevey and his team send their young wards home each day armed with the wisdom of the ancient Greek philosophers, illustrating how critical thinking and pastoral care can empower children to question the mythologies of war and of violence and challenge the narratives of their community.
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