While respecting your elders is one of those virtues that is taught in school and present in many stories and films, it certainly does not seem to be put into practice by some people. Especially during the pandemic, when it was even more difficult to visit your grandmothers and grandfathers, many elderly people expressed experiencing isolation and loneliness, combined with the feeling of being useless. However, to be motivated and seeing a purpose is a key in every stage of life, which is why martial-arts expert Jeff Wall has dedicated his life to share his passion and motivation with senior citizens.
Golden Age Karate is screening at Mill Valley Film Festival
In her short documentary “Golden Age Karate”, which is part of a larger series about helpful people produced by Zendesk and Even/Odd, we get to meet Jeff, whose passion for martial arts began when he was six years old and reached its early peak when he was inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame by the age of ten. Rather than seeking a career in other ventures, Jeff decided to teach the elderly, starting with his own grandmother and later on people in retirement homes, wanting to give them some kind of purpose and also help them in their lives. As we observe the montage sequences of Jeff teaching senior citizens various moves, kicks and punches, you cannot help but feel inspired by his optimism and the overall effect the class has on his pupils. Apart from montage, Agha also utilizes short animated sequences and voice-over, by Jeff or his mother Valerie, to further highlight what truly is the story of an everyday superhero.
In conclusion, “Golden Age Karate” is an inspiring documentary about an example of how the younger and the older generation can connect and find purpose in their lives. The appeal of Sindha Agha's feature comes from its protagonist, his optimism and dedication.
