National Speech and Debate Association

If all the craziness happening in the world is making you feel hopeless, let me recommend an hour and half reprieve with the Sundance documentary Speak. Co-directors Jennifer Tiexiera and Guy Mossman (who also acts as DP) have brought what feels like a nerd-celebrating doc-version of your favorite sports flick. You know, the kind where you want to get up and cheer. Go team! Speak. follows five high school students from across the US as they prepare for and compete in the Original Oratory category of the National Speech and Debate Association championships. Participants, who come from all over the country, include Esther, Noor, Mfaz, Noah, and Tim. Two-time national champion Esther is an oratory superstar, Sunday school teacher, preacher’s daughter, and the child of Nigerian immigrants. These kids are truly amazing.