War Dance (2007)

Simply A Masterpiece

It’s fine. It's literally the definition of a fine movie. You’ve seen it before, you know every beat and outcome before the characters even do. Only question is how much escapism you’re looking for.

The film's masterful storytelling did its job. The message was clear. No need to overdo.

It's simply great fun, a winsome film and an occasionally over-the-top luxury fantasy that never flags.

This is a documentary that makes one realize fully the power of film. This is a very intense film on the rehabilitation of young children whose lives have been shattered by war – in this case a war in northern Uganda. This rehabilitation is done by involvement in music and dance. There is a universality to these art forms that hopefully will bring joy and strength back to their lives.I also loved the way this film portrayed African people – there are relatively few films that give a full portrait of the people of Africa. There are many films depicting events in Africa. This one gives a full view of both people and events – it does not portray people in the abstract. Some of the events narrated in this documentary are not for the faint of heart. I would not recommend this film for young children.It also makes one realize how we in the affluent west are so overloaded with our gadgets and toys. How much does one need for happiness? There is both great joy and sadness in this documentary, so be prepared.

I thought that this movie was truly amazing and so eye opening! I was in shock when i saw this because though I knew that there was a war going on, i didn't realize how bad it really was. I think that this movie was wonderfully made and that they deserved that Oscar. I also think that the three main kids (Dominic, Rose and Nancy) were such nice kids and happy kids even though they had to go through all that. I got to meet Dominic and he is a truly wonderful kid. He is so nice and doing really well.Also, in case anyone wanted to donate money to AMREF (one of the sponsor's for the film) you can go on their website, www.amref.org and then they tell you how to donate there.

You must be warned that much of this is painful to watch. Those of us in more affluent circumstances don't like being reminded of the horror which many including young children are forced to endure.This focuses especially on three children: Rose, Nancy, and Dominic. Each has a horrible story to tell. And each has been lifted up through the power of music and the arts.Not only has music especially done much for these children, but also the musical competition has given them some to aspire to and renewed hope for their individual futures.It seems like the people of Uganda look down on the capabilities of those living in the war zone. The competition gives them the chance to prove themselves.During the credits, we are told of the aspiration of each of the three. One can only wish for each the future he or she is working for. One hopes to be a music teacher, one a doctor, and one a musician. May they be granted their wishes.The film has some of the most beautiful cinematography I have seen in a documentary. We see both the beauty and the devastation of the country.This is a film to see and easily ranks among the best films of the year, matching many of those filmed only for entertainment value.

I can't leave an unbiased comment on this film as it is so emotional, both happy and sad. I was prepared for it to be heavy, and I felt the film dealt with the hard aspects of children in war in a very even way. It lets the children describe the hardships for themselves, which usually comes across as detached and unemotional, but is more likely overwhelmed and unable to deal with the trauma. One child on the way to the dance competition in Kampala said "I can't wait to see what Peace is like." It was shocking to hear kids so young talk about murder, death, survival and loss so frankly.I was really sucked in to the excitement and emotion of the dance competition. The kids said "When I dance, I don't think about war." Which is what happened to me in the movie as well. The competition makes it a fun and exciting film you are happy you saw.