Review of Please Vote for Me

An excellent, thought-provoking documentary that's ultimately a sad window into parenting and power in 2007 China. There was an election for 3rd grade class monitor, chosen by the (well-meaning?) teacher. The film maker covers it all. Three candidates: a girl and two boys. The girl never really stood a chance, being viewed as the weak one. The boys were more devious and mean, and coached by their manipulative parents who would do anything to see their child succeed, except the girl's divorced mother -possibly due to no father being present? The whole election brought the worst out in people, including the parents. Force and bribery wins. Compassion loses. It's the Chinese Communist version of Democracy? The filming and editing provided a revelation into this world. Highly recommended, even if your favorite candidate loses (same as most American "reality" competitions - there are always more losers than winners).