Generation Startup

Generation Startup is a 2016 documentary directed by Cheryl Houser and Cynthia Wade. The film is marked by the inspiring and dynamic performances of some very talented individuals, including Dextina Booker, Kate Catlin, Avery Hairston, along with Labib Rahman, Brian Rudolph, and Max Nussenbaum. The film vividly captures the hustle, spirit, and vigor of the young entrepreneurs as they venture into the realm of startups, shaping their dreams into reality.

Set against the backdrop of Detroit, the documentary represents the journey of six college graduates who take the path less traveled by choosing to build their start-ups in the city. The film follows the ups and downs faced by these young entrepreneurs over a year and a half as they endeavour towards their goals. Generation Startup provides the audience an insight into the trials and tribulations and growth and development involved in the process of turning innovative ideas into functioning businesses.

The film opens with Avery Hairston, who left a successful Wall Street career to launch Remake, a nonprofit organization centered on mobilizing students for climate change. Kate Catlin, a fellow entrepreneur, is the Founder and CEO of Find My Flock, a tech job board built to promote diversity. Then we see Dextina Booker, a mechanical engineer, striving to increase diversity in tech through her work at Detroit Labs. Their journeys depict the spirit of the 'Generation Startup', a term given to the ambitious young people committed to the startup culture.

The film provides a balanced overview of the vibe of entrepreneurship by highlighting the struggle, hard work, dedicated perseverance, and the resilient mindset that these individuals possess. It throws light on the personal growth that comes with taking risks and the challenges faced when things don't go as per the plan. The documentary educates the audience about the startup ecosystem, giving close-quarters insight into the ups and downs associated with startup culture.

What makes Generation Startup stand out is its portrayal of diversity. It underscores the significance of having diversified thought and representation in an evolving tech world. It highlights the stories of not just male but also female entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need and importance of gender inclusion in this highly competitive field.

The film symbolistically uses Detroit, a city known for its grit and resilience due to its history of economic struggles and subsequent revival, as its backdrop. The choice of location enhances the documentary's narrative themes of risk, reinvention, and resilience, paralleling the city's spirit within its subjects.

Wade and Houser's direction does an exceptional job capturing the raw, uncensored realities of the burgeoning startup culture. They skillfully balance the narrative by sharing the moments of success and failure, joys, and disappointments. The film offers an honest depiction without the allure of sugar-coating, making it more relatable to the audience.

The cinematography of this movie contributes significantly to its aesthetics. The tranquil shots of Detroit contrasted with the dynamic energy of the young entrepreneurs depict a beautiful picture of struggle turning into success. The music suits the theme and vibe of the movie, embodying the blend of excitement, anxiety, and perseverance that comes along with the startup journey.

As a documentary, Generation Startup successfully challenges the stereotypes around entrepreneurship. The film shatters the bubble of overnight success stories and emphasizes that the path to success is often laden with persistent hard work combined with countless moments of trials and errors.

The performances are not superficial but feel genuine and heartfelt, creating a connection between the subjects and the audience – a testament not only to the filmmakers' vision but to the real-life commitment and courage of the featured entrepreneurs.

Generation Startup opens a fresh dialogue about youth, innovation, and overcoming failures. It is a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit, bringing forward the narrative of struggle and success, instilling a sense of inspiration and motivation. The film is not just about startups; it dives deep into the broader themes of personal growth, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. It’s an essential watch for anyone curious about the reality of entrepreneurship, catapulting the audience into the heart of the entrepreneurial frontline.