Part of the OWN documentary series, Most Valuable Players takes us to three schools in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania—Emmaus High School, Parkland High School, and Freedom High School—as they prepared for their production of Bye Bye Birdie and dueling versions of Les Miserables. The dedication of these students, their instructors, and those responsible for the Freddy Awards is total. The awards show airs on local live television, rivaling even the best musical numbers on the Fox series, Glee.
The Freddy Awards follows the typical format of award shows: there’s a nomination process, and eager students gather together to watch the local news as they announce what shows, schools and students are nominated for the Freddy Awards. On the night of the Freddy’s, held at a local auditorium, everyone dresses up, there’s a host, performances and the awards are presented.
Director Matthew D. Kallis’ point about having to bring a sports-like competitiveness to dolefully underfunded arts programs is a solid one. However, while there’s lots of talent on display (and plenty of enthusiastic personalities), we get little of the behind-the-scenes activities that would serve to better explain the motivation and evolution behind the Freddy’s, while giving viewers a breather from the award frenzy.
Despite some obvious issues, the good intentions of Most Valuable Players is clear, and any high school theater fan, or individual who wants to experience a different kind of Glee would be wise to check this documentary out.
The following special features are available on the DVD: On Stage with MVP: Reunion at the State Theatre, Sister Mary Theresa, Frank vs. Rita, Vic’s Interview, Vic Copes, Zach’s Party, State Theatre History, High School Sports, Nazareth Refuses, A Prayer for the Film, Outtake Reel, Sundance Interview (Clip 1, Clip 2), Commentary, MVP Trailer.
