The Black American Experience: Ben Carson

The official Ben Carson narrative put out by his presidential campaign is at the heart of this documentary, which details Carson's impoverished childhood and the culture of male violence that he claims swept him up, turning him combative and even—allegedly—on one occasion near-murderous. The salvation that Carson has described due to the intervention of his mother and her demands that he embrace education are detailed here, a sea change that resulted in Carson's admission to Yale and decision to go into neuromedicine. Carson's feats as a world-renowned brain surgeon are mentioned, most compellingly his effort to separate twins conjoined at the head. Footage of Carson giving inspirational speeches is also included, as is a breakfast prayer meeting where he was critical of Barack Obama while the president sat two chairs away. The profile ends with Carson's announcement that he is launching a bid for the White House. Regardless of the fact that Carson has since suspended his presidential campaign, this is an inspiring profile of a man who has already made his historical mark, being granted over 60 honorary doctorate degrees and decorated with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. (T. Keogh)