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Reviews
The Last House Standing (2020)
Common Sense Construction vs Perpetual Destruction
Over time, humans have learned to regulate housing construction with building codes that protect property and people's lives. When it comes to climate change and development in vulnerable areas - common sense does not rule. Last House Standing clearly and definitively illustrates the problem with a very watchable documentary composed of many amazing drones shots and emotional interviews and scenes with homeowners. This film should be required viewing for architects, developers, home improvement companies, and anyone in the market for a residence in a vulnerable area - and lately it seems that everywhere is vulnerable. The Habitat for Humanity approach was most appealing for me; because it is modest yet very effective. With California burning every year, and relentless hurricanes and tornados, this extremely timely documentary is must viewing for anyone mildly interested in climate change - and planning and building that makes sense to meet the challenges ahead.
Dodging Bullets (2015)
Strong Case for Truth and Reconciliation
The United States has yet to come to terms with our flawed history and our two original sins: Genocide and brutality towards Native Peoples - and Slavery. Dodging Bullets eloquently documents how historical trauma haunts the descendants of original Americans. I hope that open-minded people of all political persuasions will view this film and learn from it. It should be required viewing in schools; and for all citizens who have even a shadow of a moral compass. We cannot heal our wounded nation until we all come to terms with the content of this moving documentary.
The Fan Connection (2019)
Inspiring & Intimate Look at Chronic Fans of a Losing Team
Everyone who has rooted for an underdog will connect with the charming characters in this affectionate slice of life documentary about how sports can create vital human bonds when the chips are down. At a time when America seems hopelessly divided, the three main characters remind us that much in life is more important than politics. You don't have to be a hockey fan to be carried away by the intimate glimpse into the lives of three people struggling for three different & very human reasons. Along with the story of the fans is a parallel story of the creative citizens of the rust belt city of Buffalo struggling to renew blighted areas despite missteps by political leaders who lack imagination. This documentary will inspire anyone coping with adversity - and isn't that really all of us?
Don't Be a Sucker (1943)
Timeless Message Elegantly Told
This simple film celebrates American diversity and immigration by showing the evils of racism and persecuting minorities. The film plot outlines how a society gradually accepts ostracizing "outsiders" as told by a Hungarian who witnessed this in the lead-up to World War II. The film speaks to us now in 2017 just as urgently as it did in 1943 & when it was re-released in 1946. Should be required viewing for middle and high school students. Propaganda with heart & soul.