Recent Talkback About Independent Lens This Month

Always thought-provoking, sometimes controversial, Independent Lens brings you documentaries, dramas, shorts and Web-exclusive projects made by independent thinkers. Check out some of the recent Talkback from viewers about films airing this month.

STEAL A PENCIL FOR ME: “This was such an uplifting and touching story of a love that was truly meant to be. Despite the horror they endured and not knowing if they would stay alive long enough have a future together, they found each other again. The love and affection that they have for each other, even after 60+ years of marriage, renews my faith in love.” Posted by: Abby Borgman on May 28, 2009 “What a beautiful love story in the midst of so much sadness. The mother of a friend of mine survived a concentration camp and was one of the sweetest, gracious ladies I knew growing up. I was too young at the time to realize what she must have gone through to survive and still have such a positive outlook on life everyday. Thank you for a very moving and uplifting story.” Posted by: Cathy Sweeney on May 27, 2009 “Very, very moving! Loved Ina and Jack. This film gave a very different and more personal prospective of the Holocaust.” Posted by: Michele Merrill on May 27, 2009 View more Talkback and submit your own for STEAL A PENCIL FOR ME >>

STRANDED: The Andes Plane Crash Survivors “After the avalanche, when they were describing what each one felt as if they were slipping into death; the courage and strength it must have took to fight their way back. I was in awe!” Posted by: Marla on May 22, 2009 “Despite the tragedy, overall the film was positive, giving light to smart choices made to survive and faith in each other and God. I remember hearing about this story as a kid; I'm glad this film was made to counteract the negative aspects focused on by the media way back when.” Posted by: Kat on May 21, 2009 “This is a tremendous human story, told reverently. I don't think I can ever forget the courage and unity the survivors showed in the face of crushing despair and physical trial.” Posted by: Anela on May 21, 2009 View more Talkback and submit your own for STRANDED >>

CRIPS AND BLOODS: Made in America “As the documentary illustrates, building more prisons will not help. The ‘war on crime’ does not help. We have to take responsibility as a country and reach out to our poor communities and strengthen their school systems and economies. Most of all, we need to reach out to them with compassion and understanding.” Posted by: Joe on May 18, 2009 “This was an amazing, very well done documentary. It made me weep for the suffering of these young innocent boys go through and the pain their parents have to endure.” Posted by: Celeste on May 15, 2009 “My wife and I watched this last night and were riveted to our seats. This film answered (an raised) several questions for us (a couple of latter-period baby-boomers). We're insisting that our sons watch this film too, so we can all talk about it, and the similar manifestations of the social malaise we see in the community around us--and what we ought to be doing about it…” 

Posted by: Nate on May 14, 2009 

View more Talkback and submit your own for CRIPS AND BLOODS >>