It's always wonderful to be reminded or or introduced to extraordinary people. It's rare when they are women, especially coming from a time when getting a college education and attaining status was socially improbable. Let's throw in for obstacle's sake that this particular 98 year old, Brooklyn-born woman who is a successful author, explorer, journalist and humanitarian is a Jew who established herself when antisemitism was rampant in the United States. That is why the biopic 'Ahead of Time' is so aptly named. Ruth Gruber is extraordinary not only for her accomplishments in the face of social, religious, and gender biases, but for her unselfconscious humility in the face of these achievements. It all seems so easy for her. It doesn't hurt be brilliant, hard working, fearless, adventurous, curious and socially aware. Combine these traits and you have someone who not only reports the news, she makes it.
I hesitate to list her adventures and accomplishments. They should be discovered in the viewing of the film. It seems odd that she has been forgotten by almost everyone. But then, so much of women's history is. Another reason to see the film. Women and young girls should see it to remind themselves there should be no limit to anyone's aspirations. Men could learn a thing or two from the film as well. Fortunately, Gruber was also a filmmaker and photographer, so there's much archival footage and stills evidencing her travails and landmark works. The audience will be constantly surprised by her exploits in disparate parts of the world during historically significant periods. She was there, recording, reporting and contributing to outcomes. Her charm and lucidity at her present age is inspiring. Thanks to Rob Richmond in his directorial debut, her legacy will not be lost.
Ahead of Time
Director: Rob Richman
Time: 73 min.
Opening November 26 at the Opera Plaza in San Francisco
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