Educational Media Reviews Online

Perhaps a subtitle of the documentary name should be Building A Wall. The Wall is such a peaceful thing in its own right. We see it meandering across the hills and ravines following the contours of the earth as it zigzags and snakes its way across the boundary that the state has instituted across the vistas. But through the eyes of the main players we quickly see this is no great wall that serves to protect a nation that serves all its inhabitants, rather it serves to distinguish and magnify differences. It is true that the director posits only the view of the outsider in this documentary. But the documentary captures the sincerity and essence of the residents of the Home Norte Dame Des Douleurs in Jerusalem. If using this film for inspiring discussion of human rights and social exchanges it needs to be supplemented with perhaps two other view points, such as the view of the State of Israel as a government and security needs, and the needs and fears of the citizens outside the West Bank. Nevertheless although this film is centered upon the citizens of the West Bank, it makes its point. In such a world of division and boundaries we may all ask the question “What Way is Up?” Whether taking the position of being ‘walled in’ or being ‘walled out’ the point is that the economy of the West Bank and its people are hurting and are suffering. Businesses and families are isolated and subjected to ever changing rules and regulations as the paper chase of authorization forms increase. Perhaps the film’s strongest moment relates to the statement by Raed, a young assistant at the Home when he says, “I don’t even think of marriage. It would be unfair to impose this life upon children.” Shot with stark reality. Excellent sound, photography, and use of subtitles make this documentary powerfully “communicating.” Other enhancements include a chapter selection menu for accurate and immediate review of material. There is a 13 Page PDF Study Guide Available to assist in discussing this film. This is an excellent discussion tool for the video, offered through the ICARUS website. Lazarevski is commended for bringing this portrayal of reality in the daily lives of these people to our immediate viewing. The power of the film is in drawing the viewer into the presence of the individuals whose lives we are allowed to share both publicly and intimately. Strong and provocative! For a preview please watch the PBS Point Of View (POV) clip: http://www.pbs.org/pov/thiswayup/index.php Awards