Watch 21 Below

21 Below is a documentary film that follows the lives of eleven residents of Buffalo, New York, over the course of four seasons. Directed by Samantha Buck, the movie explores the hardships and struggles faced by these individuals as they try to make a living and find happiness in a city that has been struggling economically for years.

The movie begins in the winter, with the camera focused on the snowy streets of Buffalo. We meet the eleven subjects of the film, who range in age from 17 to 59. They come from diverse backgrounds and have different dreams and goals, but they all share a common bond: they are all living below the poverty line. The film introduces us to these individuals through interviews and glimpses into their daily lives. We meet a single mother who is struggling to provide for her children, a young man who is trying to overcome drug addiction, and a couple who are facing eviction from their apartment.

As the movie progresses, we see the difficulties these individuals face on a daily basis. We see them struggle to put food on the table, to pay their bills, and to navigate a city that feels like it has left them behind. We see them deal with addiction, mental health issues, and the challenges of raising children in poverty.

Despite the struggles they face, the individuals in the film are resilient and hopeful. We see them find joy in the small moments of life, whether it's watching their children play or spending time with loved ones. We see them pursue their dreams, whether it's starting a business or pursuing an education. And we see them support each other, forming a community of people who understand the challenges they face.

The movie is shot beautifully, capturing the stark beauty of Buffalo in winter and the lush greenery of summer. The cinematography is muted and contemplative, allowing the audience to focus on the emotions of the individuals on screen. The score is similarly restrained, adding to the movie's contemplative mood.

One of the strengths of 21 Below is its refusal to sugar-coat the realities of poverty. The individuals in the film are not portrayed as saints or helpless victims; rather, they are complex individuals with flaws and strengths. The movie acknowledges that poverty is a systemic issue that cannot be solved by individual effort alone, but it also celebrates the resilience and strength of the individuals living in it.

The film's attention to detail also adds to its power. We see the individuals go through the seasons, from winter's bitter cold to the warmth of summer. We see the struggles they face, from dealing with utility companies to navigating the healthcare system. We see their triumphs and failures, both big and small. Through it all, we feel like we are getting a glimpse into their lives, and we are rooting for them to succeed.

21 Below is a powerful and moving documentary that explores the realities of poverty in America. It is an intimate portrait of individuals who have been left behind by society, but who are fighting to live their lives with dignity and hope. The film is an important reminder that poverty is not just a statistic, but a complex and deeply human issue that affects millions of people. Although it can be difficult to watch at times, 21 Below is ultimately a hopeful and inspiring movie that celebrates the strength of the human spirit.

21 Below is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.