Unlikely

Unlikely is a significant and compelling documentary that explores the American education system, with particular emphasis on the socio-economic and demographic factors that hinder access to higher education and the achievement of four-year degrees by many American students.

Unlikely, released in 2019, is the brainchild of filmmakers Jaye Fenderson and Adam Fenderson, who gave voice to an overlooked aspect of the American education system. The pair takes the audience on an insightful journey through the eyes of five individuals from diverse backgrounds grappling with these barriers, spotlighting their stories to highlight the broader problem within the system.

The film features appearances from influential figures such as LeBron James and Howard Schultz, which added gravity and attraction to the documentary. The presence of these high-profile personalities underscores the depth of the issue and brings the crisis to the national and international forefront. Through their wisdom and experiences, the documentary emphasizes that attaining a degree is a shared responsibility between institutions and students alike.

The title, "Unlikely," symbolizes the obstacles students have to overcome in their quest for higher education in America. It alludes to the harsh truth: the chances for many students to receive a high-quality education and earn a four-year degree are 'unlikely', based on socio-economic status, race, or zip code.

Unlikely provides a comprehensive analysis of plummeting college graduation rates across the United States. It further investigates the systemic problems that discourage students from marginalized communities and low-income families from even pursuing higher education. Despite being the land of opportunities, the nation faces alarming issues regarding inequality in education, and this narrative is efficiently brought to life by the creative team.

LeBron James makes a pivotal appearance in Unlikely. As an influential sports personality and philanthropist, his contribution provides a first-hand account of the difficulties students face in securing a superior education. He exhibits his commitment to shaping the future of underprivileged children by sharing his plan to build a public school in his hometown of Akron, Ohio. Moreover, viewers are privy to the aspects that drove James to use his influence to effect change and provide equal learning opportunities to children from diverse backgrounds.

Aside from LeBron James, another prominent figure featured is Howard Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks. Schultz passionately discusses his initiative, the Starbucks College Achievement Plan, which provides full tuition coverage for Starbucks employees to earn a bachelor's degree. It's an effort to bridge the gap between economic background and educational opportunities, emphasizing that a company has a role to play in the positive progression of society.

The direct, human narratives in Unlikely are its beating heart, spotlighting individuals from various backgrounds - a single mother, a first-time college entrant navigating academic life, a young adult caught in the justice system, and an older adult returning to upgrade their education. Each of their narratives is woven into a singular, coalescing argument about the complex and sometimes invisible barriers to a college degree.

In the end, Unlikely rallies for systemic change while claiming that everyone has a role – politicians, educators, parents, the private sector, and individuals. It urges that American colleges and universities must evolve and change their approaches, prioritizing inclusivity and equity to accommodate students of all backgrounds and lives.

Unlikely is an uplifting, sobering, and insightful exploration of the contemporary American education landscape, calling viewers to both a greater understanding and a pressing call to action.