The First Grader

The First Grader tells the inspiring true story of Kimani Maruge, an 84-year-old man from Kenya who defies age and societal norms to pursue a lifelong dream of acquiring an education. Born and raised in Kenya, Maruge had been a member of the Mau Mau, a group of rebels that fought for Kenyan independence from British colonial rule during the 1950s. After Kenya gained its independence in 1963, Maruge returned to his village in Eldama Ravine, a rural area in the Rift Valley, where he lived a simple life as a subsistence farmer. Despite his age and physical limitations, Maruge harbors a deep desire to learn and better himself. With a strong sense of curiosity and determination, he decides to join the local primary school in 2003, when he's 84 years old and many of his peers are struggling to make ends meet. Unfazed by the skepticism and ridicule from his community, Maruge sees education as the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and unlocking a brighter future for himself and his family. However, Maruge's decision to join the school is not without its challenges. The school administrators are hesitant to accept Maruge, citing concerns about his age and the potential disruption he may cause in the classroom. Nevertheless, with the help of Jennifer Wangoi, a kind-hearted and dedicated teacher, Maruge is eventually allowed to join the first-grade class. As Maruge navigates the unfamiliar world of education, he faces significant obstacles, including his limited literacy skills and the challenges of adapting to a foreign language. Despite these hurdles, he remains determined to learn and soak up every bit of knowledge from his teachers and classmates. Wangoi, who becomes Maruge's closest ally and mentor, takes a special interest in his case and works tirelessly to support his educational endeavors. As Maruge's story gains media attention, he becomes an unlikely celebrity in Kenya, inspiring countless people to reflect on the importance of education and the power of determination. His story also resonates with Wangoi, who finds herself reevaluating her own priorities and motivations as a teacher. Through Maruge's remarkable journey, Wangoi comes to see the impact her work can have on students' lives, and the difference it can make in their futures. Throughout the film, Maruge's relationships with his family and community members add a rich layer of depth to the narrative. His wife, Wambui, who passes away during the course of the film, has always supported Maruge's dreams and encouraged him to pursue his education. Maruge's relationships with his fellow students and teachers also highlight the power of community and the value of supporting one another in the pursuit of knowledge. The film culminates with Maruge's graduation from primary school in 2005, at the tender age of 86. Despite the many challenges he has faced and the numerous setbacks he has overcome, Maruge emerges as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience, courage, and determination. His journey serves as a beacon of hope for people worldwide, reminding us that it's never too late to pursue our dreams and that education can transform lives, regardless of age or background. The First Grader is a cinematic celebration of Maruge's indomitable spirit and his unwavering commitment to education. The film's powerful narrative is brought to life by the outstanding performance of Oliver Litondo, who plays Maruge with a depth and nuance that is simply captivating. The supporting cast, including Charity Wanjiru as Wangoi, deliver standout performances that add to the richness and complexity of the story. Through its stirring portrayal of Maruge's remarkable journey, the film inspires audiences to reflect on the transformative power of education and the incredible things that can be achieved when we refuse to give up on our dreams.