Refugees from Sudan come to America, and it’s ‘A Great White Cow’ Reese Witherspoon that’s picks them up at the airport.
Produced by the makers of The Blind Side, The Good Lie sheds light on trauma in war-ravaged African countries. It’s a story about two journeys: the American woman learning to care about people outside of her bubble, and the refugees’ new life in western civilization—away from their former torments.
Depending on what you choose to dwell on, you could perceive the film to be shallow for dwelling on the savior complex of this American woman. If you think the film is all about the woman, and how good she is to lend help to the refugees, then it’s a major disappointment for its humble arrogance. If you view the film as the wake-up call the woman goes through, learning to love others in spite of her petty first-world problems, then there is a healthy dose of morality found in this story.
And if what you really want to see is the plight of the three immigrants resolved, well, then you will have to see the film for yourself. I’m sure there is more to this film than is highlighted in the trailer. I for one, think it shows some promise.
The Good Lie is based on the true story of African people often called ‘The Lost Boys’.
In “The Good Lie,” Philippe Falardeau, (writer and director of the Oscar®- nominated Foreign Language film “Monsieur Lazhar”) brings the story of their survival and triumph to life. Academy Award® winner Reese Witherspoon (“Walk the Line”) stars alongside Sudanese actors Arnold Oceng, Ger Duany, Emmanuel Jal, and newcomer Nyakuoth Weil, many of whom were also children of war.
Mamere and Theo are sons of the Chief in their village in Southern Sudan. When an attack by the Northern militia destroys their home and kills their parents, eldest son Theo is forced to assume the role of Chief and lead a group of young survivors, including his sister Abital, away from harm. But the hostile, treacherous terrain has other dangers in store for them.
The Good Lie comes to theaters in the west this October.
(Via The Wrap)