Film Review of Gifted
The Heart of Education: Nurturing Talent and Humanity

- Dr. Anjana Prajapati

  Assistant Professor,

  Marwadi University,

  Rajkot.

One significant barrier to be happy is the relentless pursuit of societal expectations that define success. This pressure is especially acute for gifted individuals, who are frequently urged to maximize their potential in narrowly defined areas. This can lead to an unhealthy sense of obligation, often at the expense of their emotional well-being.

While striving for achievement can be beneficial, it tends to serve society's interests more than the individual’s growth. In this pursuit, we risk losing sight of what truly matters in education: the nurturing of connection, joy, and the richness of human experience. We must recognize that our worth extends beyond conventional measures of success, fostering a compassionate view of ourselves and our students.

The film Gifted offers a compelling lens through which to examine these themes. Directed by Marc Webb, the story revolves around Mary Adler, a seven-year-old gifted girl, and her uncle, Frank, who raises her while navigating the complexities of her extraordinary abilities. Frank's journey emphasizes the balance between nurturing talent and ensuring emotional well-being, a crucial lesson for educators.

Mary's mother, Diane, was a brilliant mathematician whose legacy became a burden after her tragic death. The pressures surrounding giftedness can create emotional struggles that overshadow academic achievements. Frank’s devotion to Mary’s happiness illustrates the heart of education: prioritizing the emotional needs of students alongside their intellectual growth.

Throughout the film, Frank articulates a vital perspective: “I want her to know that her worth isn’t tied to her achievements; it’s in who she is and how she treats others.” This reflects an essential truth in education—that our role extends beyond imparting knowledge; it involves nurturing the character and humanity of our students.

The dynamics among the characters reveal the importance of understanding and valuing the whole person. Mary wrestles with her identity beyond her intelligence, expressing a desire to be seen for who she is, not just her achievements. She reflects, “I just want to laugh and enjoy the little things without everyone expecting me to be a genius.” This longing for authenticity in a world focused on accolades resonates with many students.

Moreover, Mary’s teacher, Bonnie Stevenson, embodies the philosophy that being gifted doesn’t require sacrificing one’s sense of ordinariness. She guides Mary through the challenges of balancing exceptional abilities with everyday experiences, emphasizing the importance of emotional support. “Don’t let the pressure to succeed drown out your own voice,” she advises, reminding us of the significance of emotional well-being in education.

As educators, we hold many responsibilities, some clear and others more subtle, often shaped by our own wisdom and intuition. Recognizing and addressing these subtleties can create a meaningful impact on our students’ lives. By fostering an environment that nurtures both intellectual and emotional growth, we empower our students to thrive, fostering a sense of belonging that can last a lifetime.

Education should not merely be about meeting academic benchmarks; it must be about cultivating a rich tapestry of human experiences. It’s about creating connections, fostering love, and celebrating the joy of learning. True fulfillment comes from embracing our potential while prioritizing the relationships we build along the way.

Ultimately, the heart of education lies in acknowledging and nurturing the humanity in each of us. By focusing on the holistic development of our students and encouraging genuine connections, we can cultivate an enriching educational experience that celebrates both their talents and their individuality. In doing so, we prepare them not only for academic success but for a fulfilling life, grounded in compassion and authenticity.