Independent Lens Season 9 Episode 2 Please Vote for Me

Please Vote for Me is the second episode of the ninth season of Independent Lens. The documentary is a fascinating look at democracy at work, seen through the eyes of third-graders in China. The film was directed by Weijun Chen and takes a close look at the election process for class monitor in a classroom in Wuhan, China.

The film follows three student candidates, Cheng Cheng, Luo Lei, and Xu Xiaofei, as they campaign for the coveted position of class monitor. Cheng Cheng is the only girl in the group and is seen as the most responsible of the three. Luo Lei is very outgoing and is confident that his popularity will win him the election. Xu Xiaofei is considered the underdog of the group and is seen as the least likely to win.

The candidates' election strategies are very similar to those used by adult politicians. They spend a lot of time making speeches, shaking hands, and promising changes if elected. They even go as far as to give out small gifts to gain voter support.

The film is not just about the students' election campaigns, though. The film really gets into the psyche of these young students and shows how much pressure they feel to win. It is fascinating to watch these young students learn about democracy and the importance of elections. They learn the importance of campaign promises, compromise, and leadership.

The documentary is also a commentary on the state of democracy in China. While the election in the classroom may seem small, it is actually a significant event in a country where elections are not widespread. The classroom election is a rare opportunity for the students to participate in a democratic process and learn about the importance of voting.

Throughout the film, the director allows the students to speak for themselves. The students' voices are heard loud and clear as they discuss their campaign strategies and what they would do if elected. The director also gives the audience a glimpse into the students' personal lives, showing how their parents and teachers view their campaigns and how they are dealing with the stress of the election.

The moral of the story is that democracy is not just about winning, but it is also about participating. The students learn that even if they don't win, they still had a voice and were able to make a difference. The film is a heartwarming and inspiring look at how democracy works at its simplest level and serves as an important reminder of the importance of elections.

Overall, Please Vote for Me is an excellent documentary that should be seen by anyone interested in democracy, both young and old. It offers a unique perspective on the election process while showing the importance of participation and the value of compromise. The film is a fascinating look at democracy in action and provides hope for the future of this important political system.