Wisconsin Dells boasts the highest number of water parks per capita in the entire world. But in order to stay functional each and every summer, the city relies on the State Department’s Summer Work Travel Program, which preys upon foreign students willing to work in the hopes of securing an American visa.

THE DELLS observes the clash between fantasy and reality faced by international student workers newly arrived in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin—the self-described “Waterpark Capital of the World.” Coming from countries such as Turkey, Romania, Jamaica, Thailand, and the Dominican Republic, these students land in the American Midwest via the State Department’s Summer Work Travel Program. Issued temporary J-1 visas, they work low-paying jobs as lifeguards, housekeepers, and servers, living in dormitories tucked behind a glut of tourist attractions. The film follows the rhythms of an ensemble cast of “J-1s” as they work, party, and cruise around town in taxis. Students weather the myriad headaches of making ends meet in the U.S.—car troubles, job losses, long work hours—thanks to their friendships and youthful optimism. We see their hopes for a summer of American luck and prosperity rub up against their actual experiences, which are in turn disappointing, funny, and transcendent.

Content Warning: This film contains material that may be difficult for some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.

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