Audiences are introduced to the importance of a loving community, which this Boys and Girls Club offers. The interviews with founders, staff members, club alumni and children tell the story of how important their experience has been. Self-esteem and friendship building are themes throughout the film.
One thing I love about the film is the use of out-takes or off-screen comments; they are not bloopers, but realistic portrayals of behind the scene jitters and jokes. If this film's audience was only children, it would need to be different. But, as a documentary it shows a family of people sorting out why they love their experience and each other. The film is a bit long and there is too much repetition, but it is informative. As the story line builds the music builds which works great!
The camera work is absolutely suitable for exhibition. Close-ups and focus consistently show the emotional sincerity of the speakers. The soft images between scenes are peaceful and dreamy, and the images over narratives enhance the beautiful words that children and staff are saying. The attire by the speakers is very suitable and not contrived. The film is primarily shot on location at the Southwest Virginia Boys and Girls Club and that is part of the fun of this film -- viewing the kids in their element at the club. As a film composer myself, I was thrilled with the music used underscoring the interviews. Piano melodies underscore the first half of the movie; then other instruments are added to build the storyline and bring the joy of the film to its climax. The outgoing music title is a delightful folk song with vocal and guitar. Well done!
It would be hard to pick out just one of the subjects for comments, but if I had to mention one person that really touched me, it would be Juice's mother. Now you have to watch the film with a name like Juice, right? Emily Pinkerton, producer, is to be commended for creating this film, especially since there were so many people to coordinate for interviews. But the outstanding award goes to William Sellari, director, cameraperson and editor. William pulls out the deeper feelings and thoughts of his subjects, and posts this film brilliantly! The editing, combined with the music, presents a perfect reveal.
My favorite part of the film is actually in the introduction with two girls sitting on a couch rehearsing their lines. The ideal venues for this film would be at other Boys and Girls Clubs across the country because those children (and adults) will relate to this story. Having said that, the values taught in this film apply to all people. I feel that everyone would benefit from knowing more about the Boys and Girls Clubs, but the entertainment value is not high and prevent some venues from taking it on. However, as an educator myself, I believe its value in terms of education or community documentaries is high
The film's message is that children need a bigger community than just their families. As an example, one of the subject's parents dies and this child has a supportive and safe place to go for after care and support. Friendship at all levels matters.
I give Impressions 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It may not appeal to those that have not experienced one of the clubs, however, it is a great film for kids and parents looking for safe and homey after school and summer programs. By Nancy K., KIDS FIRST!
Audiences are introduced to the importance of a loving community, which this Boys and Girls Club offers. The interviews with founders, staff members, club alumni and children tell the story of how important their experience has been. Self-esteem and friendship building are themes throughout the film.
One thing I love about the film is the use of out-takes or off-screen comments; they are not bloopers, but realistic portrayals of behind the scene jitters and jokes. If this film's audience was only children, it would need to be different. But, as a documentary it shows a family of people sorting out why they love their experience and each other. The film is a bit long and there is too much repetition, but it is informative. As the story line builds the music builds which works great!
The camera work is absolutely suitable for exhibition. Close-ups and focus consistently show the emotional sincerity of the speakers. The soft images between scenes are peaceful and dreamy, and the images over narratives enhance the beautiful words that children and staff are saying. The attire by the speakers is very suitable and not contrived. The film is primarily shot on location at the Southwest Virginia Boys and Girls Club and that is part of the fun of this film -- viewing the kids in their element at the club. As a film composer myself, I was thrilled with the music used underscoring the interviews. Piano melodies underscore the first half of the movie; then other instruments are added to build the storyline and bring the joy of the film to its climax. The outgoing music title is a delightful folk song with vocal and guitar. Well done!
It would be hard to pick out just one of the subjects for comments, but if I had to mention one person that really touched me, it would be Juice's mother. Now you have to watch the film with a name like Juice, right? Emily Pinkerton, producer, is to be commended for creating this film, especially since there were so many people to coordinate for interviews. But the outstanding award goes to William Sellari, director, cameraperson and editor. William pulls out the deeper feelings and thoughts of his subjects, and posts this film brilliantly! The editing, combined with the music, presents a perfect reveal.
My favorite part of the film is actually in the introduction with two girls sitting on a couch rehearsing their lines. The ideal venues for this film would be at other Boys and Girls Clubs across the country because those children (and adults) will relate to this story. Having said that, the values taught in this film apply to all people. I feel that everyone would benefit from knowing more about the Boys and Girls Clubs, but the entertainment value is not high and prevent some venues from taking it on. However, as an educator myself, I believe its value in terms of education or community documentaries is high
The film's message is that children need a bigger community than just their families. As an example, one of the subject's parents dies and this child has a supportive and safe place to go for after care and support. Friendship at all levels matters.
I give Impressions 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It may not appeal to those that have not experienced one of the clubs, however, it is a great film for kids and parents looking for safe and homey after school and summer programs. By Nancy K., KIDS FIRST!
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