Immersion (short) 2009
"What would school be like if nobody spoke your language?"
Immersion (short) (2009) is a powerful 12-minute drama that offers an intimate glimpse into the challenges faced by young immigrants in American classrooms.
Director: Richard Levien
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Immersion (short) (2009) about?
Immersion tells the story of ten-year-old Moises, a recent Mexican immigrant who faces isolation in his new California classroom because he doesn't speak English. Despite excelling in math, he struggles to understand his teacher and connect with classmates during his first test in the United States.
Who directed Immersion (short)?
The film was directed by Richard Levien, who brings authentic attention to the immigrant experience through his work with non-professional child actors.
Who stars in Immersion (short)?
The cast includes Angela Carlos De Silin, Nabor Acevedo, Theodora Dunlap, Gerardo Acevedo, and Antonio Acosta, with performances drawn from real students in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Is Immersion (short) (2009) worth watching?
Absolutely. Despite its short runtime, the film delivers an emotionally impactful experience that sheds light on important educational issues. The authentic performances and universal themes of belonging make it a meaningful watch for anyone interested in immigrant stories or educational documentaries.
How long is Immersion (short)?
The film runs for 12 minutes.
Immersion (short) (2009) — A Child's Journey Through Language and Belonging
Immersion (short) (2009) is a powerful 12-minute drama that offers an intimate glimpse into the challenges faced by young immigrants in American classrooms. Directed by Richard Levien, this poignant short film follows ten-year-old Moises, who has recently arrived from Mexico and struggles to navigate his new school environment where English is the primary language of instruction. Despite his mathematical talent, Moises finds himself isolated and confused when he cannot understand his teacher's instructions.
The film features authentic performances from untrained child actors sourced directly from public schools in the San Francisco Bay Area, lending an unfiltered realism to the narrative. Angela Carlos De Silin and Nabor Acevedo lead the cast in portraying the emotional weight of cultural displacement and linguistic barriers. Through Moises's eyes, viewers experience the frustration and vulnerability of being unable to communicate, making this more than just a story about education—it becomes a window into the immigrant experience.
Levien crafts an emotionally resonant piece that puts human faces to policy debates about English Language Learners. The short format intensifies the impact, creating a concentrated burst of empathy that lingers long after the credits roll. This intimate character study succeeds in transforming statistical discussions about bilingual education into deeply personal storytelling.