We Are Poets
Six British teenagers take on America's toughest Slam Poetry competition
The poignant tale of six remarkable British teenagers competing in a prestigious poetry competition in Washington D.C. From the streets of inner city Leeds to the stages of the American capital, this documentary charts the personal journeys of poets on the cusp of adulthood, hungry for change and full of fervour. Much more than just a hop across the pond; a resurrection of an ancient art form interwoven with inspiring snapshots of British youth.
"A poet is a person that speaks for the generation. If I don't represent it, who will?" asks 19 year old Saju, team captain of Leeds Young Authors delegation to 'Brave New Voices', Washington D.C's competition of spoken word. The final competition, or 'slam' to determine Saju's team in Leeds is fizzing with energy, each competitor determined to make their voice heard. "I want to go on stage and I want to rip it up and represent my country, represent my city" says a passionate Azalia.
Rehearsals in the weeks before the trip to America show another side to poetry; one of dynamism, spirit and personal expression. Instead of the apathetic attitudes often attributed to this generation, we hear refreshing points of view, politically provocative rhymes and vibrant verses to counter stereotypes. "I realised it's not what I thought it was" says one team member. An honest and creative outlet, this poetry collective is embracing the cultural phenomenon of performance poetry, whilst developing their own voices and stories. "Everything I write about is real; I've seen it or lived through it myself".
Weeks of practice culminate in the slam, and competition is fierce. Yet a sense of camaraderie prevails among these international poets; "We're not really against each other. We are all just here for the same reason... and that's to be heard". As poet Saul Williams describes, poetry is "always the first step of any social movement". These idealistic and imaginative teenagers are speaking up - and are well worth listening to.
Winner, Youth Jury - Sheffield Doc/Fest 2012
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