Finding the Gold Within

Alchemy, Inc.—a mentoring program in Akron, OH—combines myth, storytelling, drumming, and writing to help young African-American males finish high school, attend college, and pursue professional careers. Karina Epperlein's documentary charts Alchemy's impact on six college freshmen, members of a group of 28 who joined in the sixth grade—26 of whom would go on to college. The subjects' backgrounds vary, but most have faced some measure of instability and/or grief, including criminal charges, a sister's accidental death, and a family disintegration after both parents lost their jobs. Extended footage from Alchemy's powerful meetings capture adult leaders telling myths around a drum circle, after which the young men are called upon to respond verbally and in writing about what most resonates for them—drawing their ideas about manhood, success, friendship, and leadership from these fables. In thoughtful interviews they also talk about the challenges they've faced and their hopes for the future. All six subjects remain closely tied to Alchemy (which holds frequent reunions) and have positioned themselves for leadership roles in psychology, communications, political science, and criminal justice. A beautiful and moving documentary about young black males finding their “gold within,” this is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (M. Puffer-Rothenberg)