In the early part of the 21st century, the United States was hit with spelling-bee fever.  Spelling bees were featured in everything from movies (Akeelah and the Bee) to books (Bee Season) to Broadway musicals (The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee).  And while The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee does have some catchy songs, nothing stood out quite like the documentary Spellbound.

Spellbound follows eight kids as they move from regional spelling bees to the national finals in Washington D.C.  The kids come from completely different backgrounds and regions of the country, but are united in their determination and enthusiasm at winning the ultimate prize. 

The film takes time to delve into each child’s background and upbringing and really draws you into their lives.  Some of the kids are from poor families and their achievements in the spelling bee are more than their parents could have imagined.  Others have high-priced tutors and are drilled for hours at a time in hopes of winning the national competition.  You grow to care about each competitor and when they finally make it to Washington D.C. you find yourself rooting for all of them and are disappointed each time one of them misses a word.

Regardless of whether or not you have ever competed in a spelling bee or have any interest in them at all, you will find yourself engrossed in these kids’ lives.  There are many funny moments, such as the time one of the kids gives his impression of a robot or the mother who seems to make a pun with the word “bee” in every sentence.  There are also heart-warming sections, such as the girl from rural Texas whose parents came to America as illegal immigrants in hopes of giving her a better life.

Overall, Spellbound is a compelling film that opens your eyes to a world that you probably had never thought much about, and gives you an emotional, yet fun, portrait of the kids involved.

By Thad

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