Documentary sheds light on janitors' lives

USC Aiken will host a free screening of "The Philosopher Kings," a documentary about wisdom found in unlikely places, scheduled for March 15 at 6 p.m.

The film guides viewers through the campuses of seven American colleges and universities on a search for knowledge from unexpected sources - the schools' custodians.

Producers Patrick Shen and Greg Bennick, who also produced the multiple-award winning "Flight from Death," chose to feature the stories of individuals who are often ignored in their custodial positions to show that wisdom grows at all levels of society.

The film was released in 2009 and follows eight custodians who share their struggles to provide for their families, the pride they take in their work and their aspirations.

"I found the film to be inspiring in its portrayal of everyday people who are making a difference, both through their work and outside of their work," said USCA Chancellor Dr. Tom Hallman. "It is a great way for us all to see one another in a different light and to appreciate our neighbors at a new level."

To date, 12 film festivals and several colleges and universities across North America have hosted screenings of the film. It won the Emerging Cinematic Vision Award at the 2009 Camden International Film Festival and a Special Judges' Mention at the 2009 Newburyport Film Festival and was nominated for best documentary at the AFI/Discovery Channel Film Festival, Calgary International Film Festival and Raindance Film Festival.

The free March 15 screening is open to the public and will be held in the USCA Etherredge Center. Dr. David Dillard-Wright, assistant professor of philosophy, will lead a discussion regarding the film.

"The Philosopher Kings" movie trailer can be seen at www.philosopherkingsmovie.com.