Grammar enthusiasts and language lovers flocked to the sold-out documentary screening at the Bryn Mawr Film Institute, braving frigid temperatures and the looming threat of a historic snowstorm in the Philadelphia area. The event showcased 'Rebel with a Clause', a captivating 'road trip, grammar docu-comedy' that has been making waves on the indie movie circuit. The film follows language expert Ellen Jovin as she embarks on a journey across the United States, from Bozeman, Montana, to New York City, and beyond. Jovin's unique 'Grammar Table' setup invites strangers to share their questions, comments, and concerns about the English language, ranging from the nuances of semicolons to the proper usage of 'y'all'. What began as a light-hearted grammar refresher evolved into a profound exploration of Americans' shared humanity, even in times of political polarization. Jovin, the film's star, is a renowned author with four books on writing and grammar, including 'Rebel with a Clause: Tales and Tips from a Roving Grammarian', which chronicles her cross-country adventure. Directed and produced by Brandt Johnson, Jovin's husband, the movie is currently on its second cross-country tour, with the Bryn Mawr screening marking its first public showing in the Philadelphia area. Johnson's enthusiasm for the film's impact was evident as he distributed grammar quizzes and chocolate treats in the film institute's foyer, stating that the response has been 'extraordinary'. Jovin's 'Grammar Table', initiated in 2018, has become a platform for human connection, as Johnson himself discovered. The screening attracted a diverse audience, including retired teachers, avid writers, and grammar enthusiasts, who eagerly awaited their turn at the 'Grammar Table' to discuss their pet peeves about commas, parentheses, and quotation marks. Jen Tolnay, a copy editor from Phoenixville, traveled to attend the screening, even rescheduling a haircut appointment. The 86-minute film elicited laughter and engaged discussions, with a particular highlight being Philadelphians' unique pronunciation of a certain wet substance. The post-screening Q&A session was lively, with moviegoers praising Jovin and Johnson's work and sharing their own grammar-related anecdotes. For Katie McGlade, grammar is an art form, and she finds joy in Jovin's ability to bring laughter and communication to the world. McGlade, a retired communications professional from Ardmore, is a self-proclaimed grammar corrector, often clashing with editors over language usage. She now channels her passion into creating colorful prints that celebrate adverbs, emphasizing the importance of joy and communication in our lives.
