Benedict Men

"Benedict Men" is a unique documentary series released in 2020 by Quibi that follows the journey of a high school basketball team from St. Benedict’s Preparatory School in Newark, New Jersey. The series uniquely brings alive the struggles, victories, and sorrows of these young athletes as they navigate the difficult terrain of teenage life and high-nature competition with the sole objective to rise to the pinnacle of high school basketball.

The series sheds light on St. Benedict’s unique education system, blending Catholic Priory and military-style leadership, instilling a robust self-discipline in young boys, preparing them for success in college and beyond. The school boasts about its 98% graduation rate which is way above the national standard and is well renowned for its athletic programs, particularly in basketball. The school follows a strict schedule, a unique schedule that includes daily Mass, tough academic schedules, and grueling basketball practices, presenting a holistic approach to education and development.

"Benedict Men" features coach Mark Taylor and his basketball players from St. Benedict’s Prep, a school that provides a haven and a stepping-stone for young boys from Newark, and around the world, many of whom come from challenging home situations and backgrounds. The series provides an inspiring look at how basketball helps these boys cope with the tough realities of life, giving them an outlet to channel their energies in a positive manner while working towards their dreams. The school's basketball team is considered one of the best in the country, both academically and athletically, and the series delivers a panoramic view of what makes these “men”, the staff, and the school exceptional.

Executive produced by NBA superstar Stephen Curry and directed by Jonathan Hock, an eight-time Emmy Award winner, the series is as much about basketball as it is about character development and life skills. Hock brings a deeply humanizing and empathetic approach to the series that allows viewers to connect with the subjects of the series on a personal level. The teenagers' quest for recognition, validation, and a sense of belonging is a theme that resonates throughout the series.

There is a lot more to being a Benedict's man than just being a great basketball player. The young boys in the team learn about brotherhood, commitment, and the transformational power of sports. The series artfully captures the trials and tribulations, often fraught with pain, stress, and frustration, but also filled with moments of joy, excitement, and triumph these young people face.

While "Benedict Men" examines the pressures that come with high-level competition and the pursuit of excellence, it delves deeper by exploring the larger social issues, contextualising the team and school within the broader Newark community. The issues of race, socio-economic disparity, and the importance of quality education are themes interwoven into the narrative, linking the microcosm of St. Benedict’s to the macrocosm of American society.

"Benedict Men" is not just a sports documentary; it is a narrative about faith, friendship, and the power of dedication. It is a commentary on the role of education, sports, and mentorship in shaping the lives of the youth, and how these boys, in turn, effect change in those around them.

From thrilling gameplay shots to intimate moments of individual introspection and group bonding, the series is visually evocative, using the visual medium to its fullest extent to transport the viewer into the heart of Newark and into the lives of these young boys. Accompanied by a well-chosen soundtrack the series captures the inner lives of the basketball players, their fears and aspirations, their setbacks and achievements, their losses and victories.

"Benedict Men" offers an honest, inspiring, and thought-provoking look at youth, sports, and education within the American socio-economic landscape. Although the series is tied to the specificity of St. Benedict’s, its themes are universal, and it speaks to anyone interested in the world of sports, the complexities and challenges of adolescence, and to those who believe in the power of community, education and discipline in shaping the future of young individuals.