Waubonsee Community College

Colors straight up, directed by Michele Ohayon, Produced by Michele Ohayon and Julia Schachter

eng

videorecording

For High School; College; Adult audiences

Colors straight up

electronic resource

747797716

directed by Michele Ohayon, Produced by Michele Ohayon and Julia Schachter

60

In the ghetto of South Central, L.A., where Latino- and African- American kids struggle against a myriad of destructive influences, there is an option for a better life. Troubled teens discover their talents and self dignity through "Colors United", a performing arts group created for inner city youth. This uplifting and emotional documentary offers powerful insights into the thoughts and feelings of these "at risk" children. Oscar, a Mexican who grew up in Watts, was dealing drugs and stealing cars at the age of fourteen. His younger brother was in jail and his parents were shot in a violent crime. Exposed to the demanding discipline of the program, and bolstered by group support, he found the resources within himself to aspire to a college education. Filmed over the course of a year, Colors Straight Up takes us to the heart of youth in an embattled community. There is racial tension, explosive family scenes, run-ins with the law, and even death; yet there is also comraderie, passionate performances and exuberance

general