Light Fly, Fly High 2013
Distributed by Women Make Movies, 115 W. 29th Street, Suite 1200,New York, NY, 10001; 212-925-0606
Produced by Halle Faber, Beathe Hofseth, Susann Østigaard
Directed by Beathe Hofseth, Susann Østigaard
DVD, color, 80 min.
College - General Adult
Caste, Women Boxers, India
Date Entered: 01/22/2015
Reviewed by Professor Carl R. Andrews, Reference & Instruction Librarian, Bronx Community CollegeLight Fly, Fly High is an eye-opening, thought provoking documentary—it’s also a great instructional tool for promoting discussion with high school social studies students. A film that’s appropriate for all ages, this is a story about a young girl’s quest for a better life in a world where life itself can be predetermined. Young adults from all walks of life, male and female, will relate to this film. This is an important coming of age production that has the power to motivate and inspire people to reach for their goals. The issues addressed in Light Fly, Fly High, are broad and will support curriculums within the social sciences. Gender roles, class, arranged marriages, and culture, are just some of the themes touched upon.
Thulasi, the film’s main character, is an excellent boxer. She aspires to one day be enrolled in a government program in India that provides good pay for athletes. However, Thulasi is dealing with social problems like sexual harassment, poverty and the pressure to marry. Viewers will be astonished by her determination and her ability to keep her eyes on the prize. Public, secondary and academic librarians should consider adding this title to their collections.
Awards
- Amanda Award, Best Documentary
- Best Documentary, One World Media Awards
- Oxfam Global Justice Award