We’re pleased to introduce the And So It Begins Learning Guide, new at Journeys in Film!
And So It Begins chronicles a quirky people’s movement that rises to defend against deepening threats to truth and democracy. This inspirational documentary celebrates a collective act of joy as a form of resistance.
Why Teach With the And So It Begins Learning Guide
This is an important film and resource for diving into into threats to democracy from technology/AI, social media, government corruption and erosion of the free press. It presents a microcosm of a growing global problem with lessons for democracies all over the world.
What Ages Is This Film For
And So It Begins is not rated. We recommend it for ages 13 and up.
What Resources Are Available For This Film
Journeys in Film offers an And So It Begins Learning Guide, designed to work in a variety of settings. It features discussion questions and extension activities. It also includes an introduction to the filmmaker, printable worksheets, and additional resources.
We also offer a Glossary of Film Terms to support the media literacy section.
Who Should Teach with And So It Begins
These resources are best for Grades 9-12, college and adult learning communities. They are also great for community education and public screenings.
What Classes does the And So It Begins Learning Guide Work In
The And So It Begins Learning Guide is suitable for classes that cover Civics, Current Events, English Language Arts, Film Literacy, Geography, Government, History, Journalism. Media Literacy, Philippines History, Political Science, Social Studies, Speech, U.S. History, Women’s Studies, and World History.
What Themes Does the And So It Begins Learning Guide Explore
This film is great for teaching about civic engagement, democracy, journalism, and women who make history.
Tell Me More About The Film
Director Ramona Diaz chronicles the months leading up to the Philippine’s 2022 presidential election as the despotic reign of President Rodrigo Duterte is coming to an end.
Amidst a tidal wave of marginalized citizens taking to the streets in support of the change they want to see, Marcos’s eldest son, Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. is the frontrunner for President. His campaign strategy consists mostly of an unrelenting and vicious social media campaign against his opponent, then-current Vice-President of the Philippines, Leni Robredo. In the operatic opening sequence, a veritable sea of people holding pink flags aloft wave in time to renditions of pop songs praising the socially conscious attorney. A joyful new people’s power movement in Robredo’s name seems to be on the rise as massive numbers of working-class
And So It Begins closely follows key players from two sides of an increasingly dangerous war between press and government. Representing the journalists is fearless Rappler CEO Maria Ressa, who despite arrests and harassment continues to publish articles holding a lawless regime accountable. On the other side, influencers start an incendiary social media movement.
As each side digs in, we become witness to an epic and ongoing fight for the integrity of human life and truth itself — a conflict that extends beyond the Philippines into our own divisive backyard.
What Other Films Does This Film Pair Well With
If you’re teaching about Political Corruption, combine And So It Begins with Navalny.
If you’re teaching about Social Media, combine And So It Begins with The Social Dilemma.
If you’re teaching about Women in Politics, combine And So It Begins with Gabby Giffords Won’t Back Down.
Where Can I Get This Resource
Get your free copy of the And So It Begins Learning Guide from the Journeys in Film Resource Library and learn more about teaching with this powerful film.
Where Can I Get Related Resources
Check out our related resource collections on Civics and Civic Engagement, Media Literacy and Journalism, and Women’s History.
What if I’m New to Teaching With Film
Check out our Teacher Toolbox to make teaching with film fun, easy and effective.
How Can I Share Feedback
If you are teaching with this film, we would love to hear how it works for you and your students. Please get in touch with us by using our contact form.
Learn more about Teaching with And So It Begins
- Ramona S. Diaz: Meet the Filmmaker
- Teach about Nobel Prize Winners with Film: Maria Ressa Profile
- Teach Media Literacy with Film: Journalism, Disinformation and Social Media
- Teach with Film about Political Corruption and Civic Engagement
