Spellbound is as much about the National Spelling Bee as it is about American dreams. The film centers around eight contestants, three of whom are second-generation Americans. These eight were selected by the filmmakers from 249 students across the country as the students most likely to do well at the national competition. The first hour of the film is devoted to introducing the audience to these unique and wonderful kids, their families, and their varied methods of preparation for the big day.

April DeGideo is the daughter of an illegal immigrant who risked everything to bring his family to the United States and a better life. For her, the trip to the National Bee in Washington D.C. is the culmination of her father's lifelong dream. For Neil Kadakia, a wealthy Californian who has private spelling tutors, a first place finish will mean 5,000 people in India will be fed. For Nupur Lala, the trip to the national competition is the magic of a second chance, "Where my parents are from, " she observes, "You don't get second chances."

Three-time national bee participant Emily Stagg seems ambivalent about the whole experience. She even comments that she is looking forward to being too old to compete the next year. Surprisingly, all of the kids are very realistic about the competition itself. They all want to win, but realize their chances are slight. One cries after being eliminated, but all the rest simply shrug in the trademark youth gesture, "whatever."

The competition itself has all the tension of game seven of an NBA finals series, but it is almost secondary to the experience of meeting this diverse group of over-achievers. Sure, you pick the kid you want to win the most, but in the end you cheer for all of them, just for having the guts to be a smart kid in today's society. From the "Congradulations Nupur!" sign at the Florida Hooters to little April's comment, "After spelling I love roller coasters second, and I'm a vegetarian. And I like coffee."

The kids are great, and so are their families. There are no pushy parents trying to live vicariously through their offspring, I imagine this was deliberate. All of the parents are both encouraging and accepting, and one pair even seemed intimidated by their little genius. For many of the families, simply seeing their child compete nationally is the United States fulfilling a promise that those who work hard will find success.

Spellbound is a wonderful movie for audiences young and old. It is funny, uplifting, and actually makes you feel good about this country. Don't miss it!

-Megan A. Denny

This just in: Spellbound will be released on DVD January 20th, 2004.