This two-part documentary—aired on PBS's Independent Lens—is based on the bestselling book Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide by married co-authors and New York Times reporters Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn, which focuses on disadvantaged women in the process of overcoming or combating adversity. Along with representatives of aid organizations, the documentary incorporates comments from Hillary Clinton, Gloria Steinem, and George Clooney, who believes that “the celebrity involvement may be able to amplify the story.” Kristof accompanies six actresses to various countries: Eva Mendes (Sierra Leone), Meg Ryan (Cambodia), Gabrielle Union (Vietnam), Diane Lane (Somaliland), Olivia Wilde (Kenya), and America Ferrara (India). The film begins with Amie Kandeh, of the International Rescue Committee, which provides relief to rape victims (most fail to seek recourse, since the law isn't on their side, but 14-year-old Fulamatu decides to prosecute her assailant). Other profiled subjects include Somaly Mam, who rescues girls from sex slavery; John Wood, who provides free education for female students; Edna Anan, who fights to reduce maternity mortality; Ingrid Munro, who helps women to start their own businesses through microfinancing; and Urmi Basu, who looks after the children of sex workers. While the Hollywood stars are initially distracting, these celebrities ultimately seem to be genuinely educated, concerned, and inspired. DVD extras include extended scenes and interviews, and a featurette on taking action. An informative, heartfelt look at women activists in the underdeveloped world, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)
Half the Sky
(2012) 2 discs. 232 min. DVD: $29.95. Docurama (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 1-4229-2227-8. Volume 28, Issue 2
Half the Sky
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