Watch The Philosopher Kings

The Philosopher Kings is a powerful documentary that follows the daily lives of several janitors at some of the most prestigious universities in America. Through their experiences and wisdom, viewers are challenged to reassess their perceptions of success and value in life. The film begins by introducing the audience to the first of the janitors featured in the documentary, Melinda Augustus. Augustus works at the University of California Berkeley campus and is the primary caretaker of the iconic Philosophers' Walk. Her warmth, positivity, and philosophical musings are captivating, and she sets the tone for the rest of the film.

The audience is then taken on a journey across the US, meeting a diverse range of janitors, each with their unique life story, beliefs, and insights. The film features Corby Baker, a Vietnam veteran who now works at the University of Georgia, and Luis Cardenas, who cleans the halls at Cornell University in New York. Despite their differences, all the janitors share a powerful wisdom that they have gained from years of experience and hard work.

Throughout the film, the janitors share their thoughts on a wide range of topics, including the nature of success, power, work, and even spirituality. They speak candidly about their lives, including their struggles with poverty, illness, and prejudice. The janitors' wisdom and positive outlook are inspirational, and their stories are a reminder of the rich legacy and culture that can be found in even the most humble of professions.

The Philosopher Kings is a beautifully shot film that captures the majesty of these prestigious universities and the people who work hard to keep them clean and running smoothly. The documentary is a moving tribute to these unsung heroes, highlighting their hard work, dedication, and extraordinary wisdom.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its portrayal of the relationship between the janitors and the students. Many of the students that the janitors encounter are dismissive of their work or perceive them as invisible. However, some students show genuine respect and gratitude for the janitors, recognizing the tremendous value that they bring to the university.

The film's overall message is that everyone has something to contribute, and that no job is too lowly or insignificant. The janitors featured in The Philosopher Kings are not just people who clean up after others, but rather, they are guardians of knowledge, protectors of culture, and keepers of wisdom. Their work may not be glamorous or well-paid, but it is essential, and their perspective on life is a valuable lesson for us all.

In conclusion, The Philosopher Kings is a poignant and thought-provoking documentary that challenges viewers to reconsider their perceptions of success and purpose in life. The janitors featured in the film are remarkable individuals with a wealth of insight and perspective that is often overlooked. Their stories are a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and faith in the inherent value of every human being. This is a film that will stay with you long after the final credits roll, and its lessons are timeless and universal.

The Philosopher Kings is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 9 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.