I Am Shakespeare

I Am Shakespeare (The Henry Green Story) is a powerful documentary film released in 2017 that presents a gripping narrative which combines real life events with theatrical elements, forming a compelling story of redemption, resilience, and the power of transformative art. It is an extraordinary odyssey through the societal issues that plague our modern era, enveloping race, socio-economic status, education, and the criminal justice system in its complex matrix. It investigates these themes through the lens of a young man's life, proving to be an eye-opener that leaves audiences both inspired and engaged.

Centered around the life of Henry Green, a young African American man from the urban inner city of New Haven, Connecticut, the film takes us on a raw and honest behind-the-scenes journey into his world. Raised in a neighborhood that has one of the highest rates of violent crime in America, Henry is forced to navigate the treacherous minefield that is his hometown. He's a charismatic and highly intelligent individual blessed with numerous talents but faces enormous challenges, creating a dramatic tension that gives this real-life story a cinematic feel.

Directed by the accomplished Stephen Dest, an Emmy nominated writer-director, I Am Shakespeare does not shy away from presenting the grim realities of such a life. The narrative remains expertly balanced, both relaying the harsh truths of Henry’s existence, while also painting us a bright picture of his dreams and hopes. The occasional dips into a theatrical method of storytelling keeps the audience firmly on the edge of their seat, providing surprising plot advances while maintaining a solid foundation built on a truthful and heartbreaking reality.

At the heart of the film is the production of Shakespeare’s iconic work, “Romeo & Juliet,” which Henry Green takes part in with the Elm Shakespeare Company. The stage not only presents an opportunity to showcase his natural acting talent but also becomes an essential catalyst for his growth, providing a sanctuary where he can explore his emotions, potential, and dreams for a better future.

An inspiring dimension to this gripping narrative is Green's innate love for learning and literature, proving that intelligence and personal growth aren't exclusive to specific socio-economic environments. Contrary to adverse circumstances, his thriving intellect allows him to draw parallels between his life and Shakespeare's classic works, artfully blending his narrative with moments of introspection and realizations about the world around him.

Somewhere between a documentary, biography, and motivational tale, I Am Shakespeare (The Henry Green Story) is a film that will move you in distinct ways. It builds bridges between reality and literature, showcasing the deep-rooted connections between Shakespearean themes and the pressing issues of our contemporary society.

The documentary is expertly shot, with Dest blending both cinematic and documentary style filmmaking to paint a vivid picture of Henry Green's world. The locations are tangible, grounded, and real, showcasing a segment of American society that is often neglected in mainstream cinema. The camera work is subtle, keeping the focus squarely on Henry and his experiences.

Enemies, deaths, betrayals, battles for survival, and most importantly, quests for love and peace aren't only the themes of Shakespeare's plays; they are also everyday realities for many people residing in marginalized communities. "I Am Shakespeare" stands tall in its endeavor to unravel this reality through the life of a dynamic young day dreamer. By the end of his journey, just like the protagonists in the works of Shakespeare, Henry forces us to introspect deeply about our society, the decisions we make, the lives we live, and the world we are leaving for the next generation.

Steven Dest's I Am Shakespeare (The Henry Green Story) comes with an important message for audiences across the globe. It forces you to question your understanding of education, social economic status, and race, leaving you deeply moved by a story of hope, resilience, and the undeniable power of art. All these thoughtful elements make this documentary film an important addition to the discourse of social justice and reform, touching the hearts of viewers while eye-opening and thought-provoking at the same time.