Chamithri Adikarige
It is quite impossible to hold your tears while you watch this heartwarming documentary. It takes you back to the time that we all have lost, the once true gift of life called the "childhood", where we played kings and queens, laughed in the rain and quarreled with our elders.But the documentary explores a harder reality of orphan children of Cambodia, their harsh beginnings, lost of their simple colorful existences in a little country with big problems. The filmmaker brilliantly succeeds in preserving the innocence of children by integrating a mythic tale wonderfully acted by the little gems, thus making it a documentary for all ages. It is a risk well taken. It is all about determination, hard work, larger than life dreams and overcoming hardships, and it'll inspire you with each shot.
Neardey Trinh
It is obvious that the guy who wrote the previous review did not watch the film because had he, his opinion would differ. Still I Stive is easily one of the most inspiring films I have ever seen. You truly fall in love with each of the children as you watch their stories unfold. They grab at your heart and make you believe that anything in life is possible. That's how these kids make you feel. Adam Pfleghaar captures the beauty of Cambodia through its landscape, but he also addresses the tragedy that the nation for so long "strives" to overcome. Through the children, their stories, he shows you that anything is possible, that "hope" is real no matter who you are and where you come from. You will see through the children's journey that dreams can come true. Phfeghaar tells the story in both a documentary style and narrative, which alone makes it so incredibly unique. I have to say that the editing for this work was amazing--to pull all the pieces together perfectly. You cannot watch this film without shedding some tears.. not once but a few times. I have seen this film twice and each time. I laugh, I cry. I want to adopt that little boy actually ;) Very well done to that cast and crew.
Tamara Johnson
I was fortunate enough to see Still I Strive at a screening 2 years ago. I am so happy this film is finally being released. The love and care these children are given, after coming from horrific conditions, will bring tears to your eyes. And the artistry the emerges from their experiences shows that the spirit cannot be held captive forever. The director has cleverly made a 'film within a film' bringing the creativity of the children to a beautiful reality. Still I Strive is directed and edited with sensitivity and the score is absolutely beautiful. A 'must see' for anyone who feels their life has thwarted their dreams. Thank you for bringing this film for the world to enjoy!
ellen-riches
I had the privilege of seeing this film when it previewed in California in the summer of 2012. I was moved, inspired and profoundly touched by this movie and the content.For me this was truly the triumph of the creative spirit determined to survive against overwhelming odds. The fact that it is a story within a documentary was itself an act of inspiration and ingenuity that I think added to my overall enjoyment of the film.As someone who works in the area of 'transformation' I was impressed by how the medium of theatre was used so skillfully to bring about such a deep and meaningful message to the audience while providing a vehicle that assisted in the healing and transformation of the subjects.Brilliantly done and a must see.
AD
