4 must-watch documentaries on the early literacy crisis—and how we can fix it!
Stories have the power to drive change—and they’re such an important tool for understanding and tackling the literacy crisis. If you're ready to better understand why so many of our children struggle with reading, dive into these recent documentaries. Each one highlights the urgency of the literacy crisis and real-world solutions that will leave you inspired to take action to ensure a brighter future for our children.
The Right to Read
Director: Jenny Mackenzie
Runtime: 80 minutes
Where to Watch: therighttoreadfilm.org
If you believe that literacy should be a right, not a privilege, The Right to Read is the documentary for you. This 2023 film follows the journeys of passionate educators, activists, and parents fighting to transform America’s reading landscape. Through personal stories, it reveals the deeply entrenched issues affecting students in under-resourced communities and the heroes advocating for equitable, research-backed reading instruction. From California classrooms to Capitol Hill, The Right to Read reminds us that the journey to literacy for all isn’t just an education goal, but a matter of social justice.
The Truth About Reading
Director: Nick Nanton
Runtime: 101 minutes
Where to Watch: thetruthaboutreading.com
Millions of American children (and even some adults) struggle with reading—and The Truth About Reading digs deep to find out why. This documentary uncovers the factors that contribute to America’s literacy crisis and exposes just how widespread the issue is. From featuring advocates for phonics-based instruction to discussing groundbreaking approaches to teaching reading, this film is packed with insights into how we can tackle this challenge head-on.
Sentenced
Directors: Connor Martin and Mark Allen Johnson
Runtime: 62 minutes
Where to Watch: sentencedfilm.com
When students are denied the literacy support they need, the consequences can last a lifetime. Sentenced takes a closer look at the strong link between illiteracy and incarceration—a heartbreaking reality for far too many young people. The film follows the stories of individuals who were failed by the education system, tracing how literacy struggles contributed to their encounters with the criminal justice system. Throughout this story of systems failures, there’s still hope. Sentenced highlights promising reforms and community-led programs focused on dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline by empowering literacy. A must-watch for those ready to advocate for justice and educational reform.
Hopeville: How to Win the Reading Wars
Director: Harvey Hubbell V
Runtime: 75 minutes
Where to Watch: hopevillefilm.com
Hopeville brings the science of reading into focus, tackling the “reading wars” in a colorful style that’s as captivating as it is informative. The documentary breaks down complex literacy debates, asking: What really works when it comes to teaching kids how to read? Through interviews with experts, educators, and families, Hopeville makes a compelling case for evidence-based reading instruction. This film is both fun and factual, showing viewers that winning the battle for literacy can be done—and that every voice in the movement matters.
Watch. Share. Advocate for Literacy!
These documentaries are a fantastic first step for anyone who wants to make a difference in early literacy—whether you're a parent, educator, student, or just someone who believes that reading is the key to the life our children deserve.
Together, we can build a future where every child in Philly (and beyond) has the literacy skills they need to thrive. So, grab some popcorn, host a watch party, and join the movement to protect every child’s right to read.
