Ivory Tower
Sundance Film Festival
Director: Andrew Rossi

Is the price of higher education really worth it? Director Andrew Rossi asks this question, and many others, in this overwhelming look at the direction of colleges and universities in the United States. Rather than focusing on one area, Rossi jumps from subject matter to subject matter to address every angle of the debate—from the fact that 68% of American students do not graduate in four years, which increases their vast student debt, to multiple schools that offer free tuition to its students. Rossi never really takes sides in the matter. He leaves it up to the viewer. However, Rossi does present the information in an entertaining method by introducing the audience to one solution, then immediately countering the recently given facts with other data that opens up another can of worms. For me, I loved college. I feel I received a well-rounded education at an affordable price. On the other hand, witnessing individuals who walk out of their graduation ceremonies, all cap and gown, being more than $140,000 in debt is absurd. The numbers are staggering on the amount tuition has risen for students, and, with the unemployment rates soaring, is it worth it? Both sides can argue for eternity, but one thing is for sure: something has to change, and fast.

– Jimmy Martin

Screening Times: 
Tuesday, Jan. 21 — 9:00 p.m. • Broadway Centre Cinemas, Salt Lake City
Thursday, Jan. 23 — 5:30 p.m. • Prospector Square Theatre, Park City
Friday, Jan. 24 — 8:30 p.m. • Egyptian Theatre, Park City