Self-Expression Through the Spoken Word (Full Screen)

Video Librarian (March 2005)

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In 1984, a construction worker launched a poetry reading at a Chicago jazz club, breathing working-class life into the heretofore often rarified flavor of “open-mic” verse. Not long after, the “Poetry Slam” concept, in which people explore free self-expression through the medium of poetry and are judged both by a combination of panel judges and audience response, was born and spread across the nation, with regular events being held in nearly every state. Building on the Poetry Slam movement, the “Poetry Lounge” is one of the largest weekly “slams” in the country and formed the basis for the 2003 Tony award-winning show Def Poetry Jam. A taping of a live slam featuring the 2004 National Slam Champions performing their works and sharing thoughts about their pieces, The Poetry Lounge, hosted by award-winning Def Poets Shihan and Poetri, serves up a blistering array of percussive, fast-paced, and emotionally-charged poetry that bears little resemblance to the stately odes and sonnets by Shakespeare, Keats, Wordsworth, and others. But the soul of poetry is evident here, which is why this title--filled with terrific performances by some of the country’s best talent--is excellent for introducing verse to teens and young adults. DVD extras include extended interviews, historical notes, and a classroom lesson plan. Highly recommended.

School Library Journal (September 2005)

Gr 7 Up-The Poetry Lounge is an open forum for self expression. Viewers will be struck by the passion of the 2004 National Slam Champions featured in this film, taken from a recent Poetry Lounge event. Each poet introduces his or her work, proving insights into the inspiration for it, and then performs it. Each performance is breathtaking in its insights and heartfelt and fervent delivery; the connection to the live audience is obvious. Following the reading, each poet talks about objectives and the writing process. The subjects addressed include the media images bombarding girls and the resulting damage to self-image, racism as viewed from perspectives of both blacks and whites, and the impact of being moved by another person. Students will enjoy the performances and the program would be an ideal starting point to inspire them to write their own poetry. The spoken word poetry movement is discussed, and award-winning Def Poets Shihan and Poetri discuss the process of writing, explaining that anyone can do this as long as they are true to their own feelings and convictions. Added features include additional interviews with the poets and links to a Web-based lesson plan and guidebook (www.choicesvideo.net). A moving and inspiring title for public and school libraries.

Copyright 2005 School Library Journal. Used with permission.