Mully 2017
Distributed by Passion River Films, 154 Mt. Bethel Rd., Warren, NJ 07059; 732-321-0711
Produced by John and Judy Bardis, A Sterling Light Production
Directed by Scott Haze
DVD, color, 81 min.
High School - General Adult
Biography, Social Justice, Social Work, Sociology, Children
Date Entered: 11/05/2018
Reviewed by LaRoi Lawton, Library & Learning Resources Department, Bronx Community College of the City University of New York“Kenya’s slums are home to over 100,000 orphans in which I in 5 will not live to see their fifth birthday.” The above quote comes the film’s introduction which follows the real life story of Charles Mully. This biographical documentary looks at the harsh life of this Kenyan who was abandoned by his parents at the age of 6. Despite the harsh reality of fending for himself at an early age, he skyrockets from rags to riches. What is inspirational about this film is that Charles has an epiphany. He sells his businesses and then uses the proceeds to rescue and help street kids with shelter, medical care, and education, giving these abandoned children a real sense of family.
The film is not without hiccups. The response from his immediate family and wife is one of complete shock and anger. Even his business people, and church abandon him for choosing to help “these people.” I watched in wonder at this man and what he had accomplished, only to give it all away to create Mully Children’s Family. The struggles, hardships and discontent with his family is evident throughout this extraordinary film. Kenya itself was in the throes of ethnic strife resulting in bloody battles across many towns and villages. In the end, the film illustrates on many levels a man filled with complete dedication and will to change the nature and outcome of so many abandoned children in his Kenya. Mully is a spiritually heartwarming film that must be shared.