Wednesday, March 12, 2008

The Promises Film Project

Last night I watched a heartwarming and bittersweet documentary about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict told from the perspective of seven Israeli and Palestinian children. Promises is a 2001 Academy Award-nominated and Emmy-winning documentary film produced and directed by B.Z. Goldberg, Justine Shapiro, and Carlos Bolado. The trailer is posted below here:



In the film, B.Z. Goldberg interviews these seven children between the ages of nine and thirteen--with a tagline stating they live no more than 20 minutes from each other, but nonetheless live in separate worlds. And very simply, but powerfully, we the audience are given a chance to hear them explain the situation, to hear their voices (instead of those of politicians and statesmen).

I, personally, was very touched by this film, and I would recommend it for everyone to see. What struck me most was the development of the bonds between these children, even in spite of the prejudice that exists in their environment...it makes you wonder how much could be resolved if people simply try to get to know each other.

2 comments:

Mark Mulligan said...

I'm really enjoying the recommendations you're providing on this blog.

Homero Gil de Zuniga said...

I totally agree Mark. Some of them are very interesting movies.Keep up the good job Huda!!