Try Harder! 2021

Art & Craft

From a directorial standpoint, the film demonstrates measured pacing and clear visual composition. The cinematography captures the school’s environment with understated palettes, while editing stitches together individual stories into a cohesive whole. Sound design remains unobtrusive, allowing interviews to dominate. These craft elements collectively reinforce the documentary’s informative tone, earning a strong technical impression.

Character & Emotion

The documentary foregrounds the students’ experiences, delivering nuanced performances through candid interviews. Subjects are portrayed with empathy, revealing personal anxieties and aspirations. Interpersonal chemistry surfaces in moments of shared pressure, adding depth to the narrative. This focus on authentic human emotion grants the film an engaging emotional core that resonates with audiences.

Story & Flow

The narrative follows six seniors as they pursue admission to elite universities, structuring the arc around application milestones. While the premise is original and the stakes are clear, the story sometimes stalls amid detailed statistics and procedural minutiae, which can dilute momentum. Nonetheless, the overarching commentary on systemic competition maintains audience interest.

Sensory Experience

Auditory elements, including a subtle score and ambient school sounds, support the film’s contemplative mood without overwhelming dialogue. Visual style relies on steady framing and natural lighting, emphasizing realism over stylistic flourishes. This restrained sensory approach aligns with the documentary’s intent to foreground content, delivering a cohesive viewing experience.

Rewatch Factor

The film’s relevance to ongoing debates about college admissions and its relatable portrayal of student stress give it lasting appeal. Viewers may return to examine nuanced observations or discuss its themes in educational settings. While the dense informational sections may deter repeat viewings for some, the emotional resonance and topical significance encourage multiple engagements.