Can you spell...
Over the years few movies have actually inspired me. The elite few that did are limited to Lean on Me, Rudy, Billy Elliot and Radio. The underlying theme in each is an underdog overcoming challenges facing them.
I couldn't understand why Mark Cuban, owner of the NBA Dallas Mavericks, insisted everyone see Akeelah and the Bee. He even ran a contest because he believed in it so much. Having watched it, I understand why. What a great movie.
Around the time of the DVD release of 'Akeelah and the Bee', Blockbuster ran in-store spelling games and activities in their retail stores nationally. This was a tag-team with ABC Canada and other partners to promote literacy nationally in Canada. How cool is that? (Ironically, weeks later the Federal Government slashed funding for adult literacy programs.)
In my humble estimation, the best way to improve literacy is through reading but Blockbuster deserves credit. This was a creative and educational way to promote a new release. They could have just handed out a free pack of M&M's with each rental but they didn't.
Can you spell impressive?
