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Science Fair is a 2018 documentary film that follows nine high school students from different countries as they prepare to compete in the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), a prestigious competition held each year in the United States. The film showcases the passion and determination of these young scientists as they strive to make a difference through their innovative projects.

The film takes viewers on a journey through the lives of these students, giving insights into the motivation that drives them to pursue their scientific interests. The students come from diverse backgrounds, with varied access to resources and support, but they are united by their passion for science and their drive to make a difference. They share stories of setbacks, triumphs, and hard work, but what is striking is their resilience and perseverance through adversity.

One of the students featured in the film is Jack Andraka, a teenager from Maryland who won the grand prize at ISEF in 2012 for his invention of a new method to detect pancreatic cancer. His story is particularly inspiring, as he faced numerous obstacles during his research and development process, including rejection by over 200 scientists before finally finding a mentor who believed in his idea. Despite these setbacks, Jack remained focused on his goal and eventually found success, becoming one of the youngest winners in the history of the competition.

Another student featured in the film is Anjali Chadha, a young girl from Kentucky who is exploring ways to use bacteria to mitigate the effects of climate change. Her project is particularly notable because it addresses a critical issue that is affecting millions of people around the world. She conducts research in her backyard and demonstrates impressive knowledge of her subject matter, as well as a dedication to her work that is inspiring to witness.

Serena McCalla, another student featured in Science Fair, is from a public school in Brooklyn, New York, and is working on a project that explores the relationship between air quality and asthma rates in her neighborhood. Serena faces challenges such as lack of resources and access to equipment, but she perseveres, demonstrating an impressive grasp of scientific concepts and a fierce determination to make her project a success.

The film also highlights the importance of mentorship and teamwork in scientific research. Many of these students credit their mentors with helping them navigate the complicated world of science and engineering and providing emotional support when they face setbacks. The film features several mentors who are committed to helping young people achieve their dreams, and it is clear that their impact is significant.

Throughout the film, viewers witness the students' preparation for ISEF, ranging from building and testing their prototypes to practicing their presentations. The competition is intense, with students from around the world vying for recognition and prizes. The film captures the excitement and tension of the event, as well as the camaraderie and support that the students show to each other.

One of the most compelling aspects of Science Fair is the way it underscores the importance of science and technology in our everyday lives. These young scientists are working on projects that have the potential to improve the world in significant ways, whether by detecting diseases early or mitigating the effects of climate change. The film is a testament to the value of curiosity, hard work, and determination, and it serves as a reminder that the next generation of scientists is already out there, making a difference.

Overall, Science Fair is a must-see documentary for anyone who cares about science, innovation, and education. It showcases the incredible work of young people who are making a real difference in their communities and the world, and it inspires viewers to believe in the power of science to solve some of the world's most pressing problems. The film is an uplifting and heartwarming journey that will leave you feeling inspired and optimistic about the future.

Science Fair is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5 and a MetaScore of 79.