Apr.27 2010

My Interview with Bob Bowdon, Creator of the Documentary Exposing the Corrupt New Jersey Education System, The Cartel

Today I had the privilege of chatting over the phone with Bob Bowdon, the writer, producer and director of a documentary titled The Cartel. The film aims to expose and make accountable America’s failing education system, specifically in New Jersey. I mean, I knew that education in this country was awful, from the various political media exposure I’ve had over the years. But after watching The Cartel, my eyes are now wide open to the unconscionable corruption, threats, intimidation, and millions of dollars wasted at the behest of those in charge of the schools.

Click play to listen to my phone interview with Bob Bowdon below, where we discuss his background, the film-making process and his concerns with the education issue. Then watch the trailer for The Cartel and find out more info. on the film after the jump.

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

As Bob said, the film has won many awards from various film festivals in 2009 and 2010, including the Visionary and Best Documentary awards from the Washington DC Independent Film Festival last month. The film is set to screen in Boston, Chicago, Denver, Minneapolis, San Francisco, Philadelphia, and St. Louis this week from April 30 to May 6. For more information on specific screenings, the film, and the education crisis, go to TheCartelMovie.com.

Check out the official trailer of The Cartel.

What Do You Think? Discuss.

Categories : Interviews

Mooosh

Classic. Like every major institution in this country, education is ruled by a deep-seeded bureaucracy. I'm not at all surprised by the allegations and scams unearthed by this documentary. It's become apparent over the last few decades that our public education system is in need of a complete overhaul. It is however surprising the lack of attention devoted towards the issue. For a country that prides itself on our service and technological based industries, it would stand to reason that we would put great care and attention into the education of our citizens. However that just isn't so. While I was fond of my public school experience, I know not everyone is as blessed as I was. The average public school today lacks the programs to both keep students in school (soaring drop out rates) and to keep students motivated. But with educators and political pricky-shits lobbying behind the scenes, it's no wonder nothing gets done. How are we supposed to motivate our students when officials and some teachers have to no motivation to educate. Anyways, my knowledge on the issue is expended. I'll have to check out the doc. Nice pick up Brabs
matthewdeery

Wow, great interview Bob. It is great you exposed the failing education system that needs a lot of attention. I cannot wait to watch the documentary as I love them so much, especially ones that have to deal with exposing failure in the American industry. I look forward to checking it out and seeing work from you in the future Bob.
Rosie87

Thanks Bob. I hope that your work can lead to mainstream acknowledgment of this issue
Matt_Damon

Wow, quite a mind opening interview and trailer. It's weird to think that guys such as ourselves are pretty lucky to have been educated in a somewhat functioning educational system with teachers who actually care about teaching. I feel this is one those issues that would be on the front page of every newspaper if not for health care and the current financial and economic debacle. I feel this movie will cause a stir in DC and elsewhere when it comes out and this issue will finally be a number one priority. Can't wait to see it
O_Dajani

Phenomenal interview Barrett. It's awesome to be able to actually get a director's perspective on a film straight from his mouth. I haven't seen this documentary yet, but after hearing Bowdon's discussion, I am definitely more inclined now. Again, great idea to get an interview, keep the great stuff coming!!
http://www.memorybits.co.uk/ sd card

The trailer a few people have asked what to do with the money? Well, it's taxpayers to wake up the case, corrupt politicians facing unions and the Internet, saw them as ever. Here is a video created by the Illinois group of taxpayers exposed replacement is organized as a monopoly education