Ten9Eight

Mary Mazzio's PBS-aired documentary examines the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE), specifically focusing on its annual business-plan competition for students, which is designed to motivate disadvantaged youngsters to defy the discouraging statistics—1.2 million dropouts per year, half coming from African American, Latino, or Native American homes. Mazzio profiles 14 contestants from across the country, including Miami's Alex, who builds electric guitars (an impressive feat for a 15-year-old), New York's Amanda, who makes eco-friendly dog treats (with help from her professional chef dad), and Chicago's Rodney, a well-spoken wedding videographer, who also serves as narrator. Teens from Baltimore, Boston, Ft. Lauderdale, and Washington, D.C., also put in appearances. Aside from the poverty suffered by some, their collective history involves sexual abuse, homelessness, teen pregnancy, and serious medical conditions such as sickle cell anemia. Mazzio adds the observations of relatives and instructors, along with video-diary excerpts, to round out their stories. A total of 35 competitors travel to New York to present their plans, and judges whittle that number down to 12 and then to one $10,000 prize winner. While unquestionably inspiring, Ten9Eight—produced by the NFTE—also sometimes unfortunately feels like a promotional film. DVD extras include an interview with the director, four additional teen profiles, and slam poetry performances. A strong optional purchase. Aud: H,C, P. (K. Fennessy).