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Location United States (US)
Project Synopsis
Set against the backdrop of one of the most complex and big public education systems in the country, this documentary follows five New York City families from diverse racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds as they navigate the emotional rollercoaster of the high school admissions process. Filming from the opening of applications in October through receiving offers in March, the film captures intimate moments of hope, anxiety, and resilience as 8th-grade children and parents confront challenges like inequitable access to test prep, language barriers, and limited information. With insight from Department of Education officials, school leaders, and grassroots parent networks, the documentary sheds light on both the intention and the impact of NYC’s intricate admissions landscape. Balancing critique with empathy, the film urges viewers—and the system itself—to reckon with the question: who is this process really working for, and how can it be better?
Artist Statement
As a parent and filmmaker living in New York City, I was both fascinated and overwhelmed when I encountered the public high school admissions process. What was supposed to be a system of opportunity often felt confusing, inequitable, and emotionally draining—not just for students, but for entire families. I began this film project to better understand how such a complex structure came to be and to listen closely to the people moving through it. This documentary is not just an investigation; it’s a portrait of families trying to make the best decisions for their children while navigating real obstacles—financial limitations, language barriers, and uneven access to critical information. I am following five families over six months, witnessing their hopes, frustrations, and quiet acts of resilience. I also will interview educators, Department of Education officials, and parent-led advocacy groups who are working, in different ways, to shape the system from within. My goal is not to place blame but to create space for empathy, transparency, and dialogue. I believe this film can illuminate how the admissions process affects real lives—and spark conversations about how we might reimagine it to better serve all students, not just the most advantaged.
Magico Nakamura is a Japanese-born filmmaker and mother of two, residing in New York City. With over two decades of experience in the film and advertising industries, she has honed her craft across major global hubs, including Tokyo, London, and New York. Throughout her career, Nakamura has collaborated with a diverse range of clients, from multinational corporations to independent artists, bringing a unique blend of cultural perspectives and creative innovation to each project. Her work has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including:
– Cannes Lions
– The One Show (Best of Show & Gold)
– Clio Awards (Bronze)
– ADC NY (Gold, Silver & Bronze)
– Japan Media Arts Festival (Grand Prize)
– YouTube Video Award Japan (Winner of Music Video)
– TDC Tokyo (Grand Prize)
Nakamura’s work is characterized by a deep commitment to storytelling that is both emotionally resonant and socially impactful. Her unique perspective, drawn from her bi-cultural background, informs her approach to filmmaking, allowing her to create narratives that are both globally relevant and intimately personal.
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