'The Backward Class' are the first aspiring graduates of Shanti Bhavan School. They are a class of dalit ('untouchable') caste students whoundertake the national ISC high school exams as a means to a brighter future for themselves, and an opportunity to break their families out of the destitution.
After 13 years of preparation, this year it is up to the students - they must successfully write these graduation exams. They are the first 12th grade class in India's history to have this opportunity, and the inaugural class of their school.
With their parents foreseeing their prospective accomplishments as a means of survival, and their school struggling with the recent economic crisis, the students have not only their own futures at stake, but those of their nearest & dearest as well. The pressure is on!
Directed by Madeleine Grant
English, 91 minutes, 2015, USA
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/109731883
Website: http://www.thebackwardclass.com/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/thebackwardclass