Prom

Prom is an exploration of the American prom experience, documented by filmmaker Martin Bell and photographer Mary Ellen Mark. From 2006 to 2009, they visited twelve high schools in ten cities, focusing on a diverse range of students. The film captures the essence of prom as a rite of passage, full of aspirations and memories.

With over three hundred interviews, the documentary provides a rich tapestry of voices and stories, highlighting the different cultural and economic backgrounds of the students. Mary Ellen Mark's portraits, taken with a 20x24 Polaroid camera, add a visual depth to the narrative, making the film not just informative but also visually striking. This documentary serves as a time capsule of a unique American tradition, appealing to those interested in youth culture and social rituals.