At the End of the Day ( 2018 )

At the End of the Day (2018): A Deep Dive into Youth, Opportunity, and Systemic Challenges

At the End of the Day, a 2018 documentary directed by Kevin Shaw, offers a raw and unflinching look at the lives of students at the Urban Prep Academy in Englewood, a predominantly Black, all-boys charter school on Chicago's South Side. The film follows a group of seniors as they navigate the pressures of adolescence, academic demands, and the complex socio-economic landscape that shapes their realities. More than just a feel-good story, the documentary meticulously unravels the intricate web of challenges these young men face, from systemic inequalities and community violence to personal struggles and the weight of expectation. It provides a nuanced portrayal of their aspirations, resilience, and the unwavering support system that empowers them to strive for a better future.

The Context: Englewood and Urban Prep Academy

To truly appreciate the impact of At the End of the Day, understanding the context of Englewood and the mission of Urban Prep Academy is crucial. Englewood, a neighborhood on Chicago's South Side, has historically faced significant socio-economic challenges. These include high rates of poverty, unemployment, crime, and gang violence. The documentary does not shy away from depicting the realities of this environment, showing the challenges students face outside the school walls. The constant threat of violence, the lack of resources, and the limited opportunities all contribute to the obstacles these young men must overcome.

Urban Prep Academy, founded in 2006, was established with the specific goal of addressing the educational disparities faced by young Black men in Chicago. The school's mission is to provide a rigorous college-preparatory education, foster a supportive and empowering environment, and instill a sense of brotherhood among its students. The school is famous for its 100% college acceptance rate for its graduating seniors, a testament to the dedication of the faculty and the determination of the students. However, the film also implicitly questions what 'success' really means in this context, and whether college acceptance is enough to dismantle the systemic barriers facing these young men.

The film doesn't shy away from depicting the school's unique traditions. One notable element is the students' mandatory wearing of ties, symbolizing professionalism and a commitment to success. This simple act is presented as a powerful symbol of aspiration and a rejection of negative stereotypes often associated with young Black men. The film shows how this uniform becomes a symbol of belonging and pride, connecting students to a larger community and a shared goal.

Key Characters and Their Journeys

At the End of the Day avoids broad generalizations by focusing on the individual stories of several students. These characters, each with their unique backgrounds, challenges, and aspirations, offer a diverse and compelling portrait of the Urban Prep experience. Here are some of the central figures in the documentary:

• Jamal: He grapples with the responsibility of caring for his younger siblings while striving to maintain his academic performance. His story highlights the challenges of balancing family obligations with personal aspirations.
• Lance: He demonstrates exceptional academic promise but faces pressure from his family to stay close to home and contribute to the family income. His journey explores the tension between personal dreams and familial responsibilities.
• Steve: He confronts personal struggles and academic setbacks while determined to prove his potential and break free from negative stereotypes. His narrative illustrates the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
• Jessie: An active student with high aspirations, his journey presents a compelling example of striving for success amidst challenges within and outside the school.

Through these individual narratives, the film explores universal themes of adolescence, ambition, and the pursuit of a better life. It also highlights the specific challenges faced by young Black men in marginalized communities.

Themes Explored in the Documentary

At the End of the Day delves into several critical themes, prompting viewers to reflect on the complex realities of education, opportunity, and social justice. Some of the most prominent themes include:

1. Systemic Inequality and Its Impact

The documentary vividly illustrates the impact of systemic inequality on the lives of these students. The challenges they face – poverty, violence, lack of access to resources – are not isolated incidents but rather symptoms of a larger, more pervasive problem. The film implicitly critiques the societal structures that perpetuate these inequalities and limit opportunities for young Black men.

2. The Power of Education and Mentorship

Despite the challenges, the film emphasizes the transformative power of education and the importance of positive role models. The teachers and mentors at Urban Prep Academy provide unwavering support, guidance, and encouragement to the students, helping them to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams. The film emphasizes the importance of culturally relevant education, where students see themselves and their experiences reflected in the curriculum and the faculty.

3. Identity, Self-Perception, and Breaking Stereotypes

The documentary explores the complexities of identity and self-perception, particularly for young Black men who are often subject to negative stereotypes. The students at Urban Prep Academy actively challenge these stereotypes, striving to define themselves on their own terms and to achieve their full potential. The school's emphasis on brotherhood and community fosters a sense of belonging and empowers students to embrace their identity.

4. Resilience and Hope

Despite the obstacles they face, the students in At the End of the Day demonstrate remarkable resilience and unwavering hope. They refuse to be defined by their circumstances and are determined to create a better future for themselves and their communities. The film celebrates their spirit of perseverance and their commitment to achieving their dreams.

5. The Definition of Success

While the documentary showcases the 100% college acceptance rate as a significant achievement, it also subtly raises questions about the true meaning of success. Is college acceptance the ultimate goal? Or is it merely a stepping stone towards dismantling systemic barriers and achieving lasting social change? The film suggests that success should be measured not only by individual achievement but also by the collective impact on the community.

Documentary Style and Technique

Kevin Shaw employs a cinéma vérité style in At the End of the Day, allowing the students' stories to unfold naturally and authentically. The film avoids heavy narration and relies primarily on observational footage and interviews to convey its message. This approach allows the viewers to connect with the students on a personal level and to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences. The camerawork is intimate and often follows the students closely, capturing their emotions and struggles with sensitivity and respect. The editing seamlessly weaves together the individual narratives, creating a cohesive and compelling portrait of the Urban Prep community.

Reception and Impact

At the End of the Day has been widely praised for its powerful and moving portrayal of young Black men striving for success in the face of adversity. It has been screened at numerous film festivals and has received critical acclaim for its insightful exploration of education, opportunity, and social justice. The film has also sparked important conversations about the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the need for systemic change. It has been used as a tool for education and advocacy, inspiring viewers to take action and support organizations that are working to empower young people.

Analysis of Urban Prep's Model

Urban Prep Academy's success, as highlighted in the documentary, can be attributed to several key components:

• Rigorous Academics: The school provides a challenging college-preparatory curriculum designed to prepare students for higher education.
• Strong Mentorship: Teachers and mentors provide unwavering support and guidance, acting as role models and advocates for the students.
• Brotherhood and Community: The school fosters a strong sense of brotherhood and community, creating a supportive environment where students can thrive.
• Cultural Relevance: The school incorporates culturally relevant pedagogy, ensuring that students see themselves and their experiences reflected in the curriculum and the faculty.
• High Expectations: The school sets high expectations for its students, believing in their potential and challenging them to achieve their full potential.

However, the documentary also implicitly acknowledges the limitations of the Urban Prep model. While the school has achieved remarkable success in sending its students to college, it cannot single-handedly dismantle the systemic barriers that these young men face. The film suggests that a more comprehensive approach is needed, one that addresses the root causes of inequality and provides sustained support for students beyond their high school years.

Comparison to Other Similar Documentaries

At the End of the Day can be compared to other documentaries that explore similar themes of education, inequality, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities. Some notable examples include:

• Hoop Dreams (1994): Follows two African-American teenagers in Chicago with aspirations of playing professional basketball.
• Waiting for Superman (2010): Examines the state of public education in the United States.
• Step (2017): Documents the senior year of a girls' high-school step team in Baltimore.

While each of these documentaries offers a unique perspective, they all share a common goal of shedding light on the systemic challenges faced by young people and the importance of education in creating opportunities for a better future. At the End of the Day distinguishes itself through its specific focus on the all-boys environment of Urban Prep Academy and its nuanced portrayal of the complexities of Black masculinity in a marginalized community.

Conclusion

At the End of the Day is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that offers a compelling glimpse into the lives of young Black men striving for success in the face of adversity. The film is not just a story about education; it is a story about resilience, hope, and the unwavering pursuit of a better future. By humanizing the students and showcasing their individual struggles and triumphs, the documentary challenges viewers to confront the systemic inequalities that limit opportunities for marginalized communities. It underscores the importance of education, mentorship, and community support in empowering young people to achieve their full potential and to create lasting social change. The film ultimately leaves the viewer pondering the definition of 'success' and the individual and societal responsibilities in ensuring a more equitable future for all. The film is a call to action, urging viewers to support organizations and initiatives that are working to address the root causes of inequality and to create a more just and equitable society for all.

Tables

Table 1: Key Characters and Their Challenges

Table 2: Themes Explored in the Documentary

Table 3: Elements Contributing to Urban Prep's Model

Table 4: Comparison to Other Similar Documentaries