I'm Still Here

A well-made, MTV-aired documentary that is poignant while also eschewing overt sentimentality, I'm Still Here tells the stories of youthful Holocaust victims, whose first-hand observations of Nazi-committed atrocities were recorded in their diaries, passages of which are movingly read by some of today's most talented young actors, including Kate Hudson, Ryan Gosling, Elijah Wood, Joaquin Phoenix, Brittany Murphy, Amber Tamblyn, and Oliver Hudson. Introduced by Zach Braff, narrated by John Norris, and directed by Lauren Lazin, the film also features archival footage, personal photos, drawings, and original footage shot in the remnants of a Jewish ghetto located in Vilnius, Lithuania, while Grammy award-winning musician Moby provides a surprisingly effective and evocative musical score. The stories of these victims, reflecting hope and courage along with fear and horror, are deeply moving. DVD extras include an MTV news segment, an interview with co-producer Alexandra Zapruder, and a printable study guide. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (E. Hulse)