To make 'Spellbound', a documentary which charts the progress of eight children in an all American spelling championship, director Jeff Blitz reportedly put the entire cost of the production on 14 credit cards, and speculates that it came in "somewhere between $100,000 and $200,000 dollars". Yet the final result is so endearing, heart-warming and intelligent that its budgetary restrictions (and Blitz's future credit rating) are rendered inconsequential.
The National Spelling Bee has existed in the United States since 1925. Each year millions of students (up to the age of 14) compete in regional heats to see if they have what it takes to compete in the national finals, broadcast live every June. Filmed around the 1999 competition, Blitz's camera follows eight kids, from very diverse backgrounds, from their regional finals right up to the contest itself in Washington. Over the two days, 247 kids will fail to spell a word correctly, leaving one to claim the title of National Spelling Bell Champion.
Taken on its most literal level, 'Spellbound' is one of the purest thrillers in recent memory. As the youngsters stumble over words in the glare of the cameras at the finals, you will them to succeed, knowing that it is inevitable that all, but one, will fail. 'Spellbound' also makes a rather poignant comment on American society and the themes of acceptance and pride that many families, especially those from ethnic minorities, feel seeing their children progress in this unique institution. A thoughtful director, Blitz doesn't just record the details of the spelling competition and regurgitate them. Taking pains to establish the backgrounds of each of the eight - some precocious, some driven and some painfully shy - he proves to be a very sympathetic director, never rushing to judge or make fun of his subjects. This patience elevates 'Spellbound' into the realm of greatness.
