Land of Higher Peace (2011) User Reviews

Land of Higher Peace was an incredible documentary that extended past it's literal storyline and brought narrative depth to a documentary.

[alexlamburini-1 · 9/10 · 13 August 2010]

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing an advanced copy of 'Land of Higher Peace' My review follows; What I didn't like was the fact that the beginning was unclear and I feel as though you didn't target a specific plot for the audience. I did of course get the idea that you were focusing on the poverty and poor conditions in the country.

I realize that you do want to maintain some element of mystery when you begin any type of film to hold the audience's attention but in my opinion if you make the audience seem too lost that can also drive them away.

What I really enjoyed about this documentary is that unlike the conventional doc the ending to this tied together a metaphorical and symbolic meaning behind the idea of visiting this third world country.

In a sense I feel as though Land of Higher Peace wasn't your average retelling of events for the sake of history or a curious glance. Instead the end targeted a specific theme and exemplified it beautifully. In essence this film had depth behind the story and that's what made it special in my eyes.

Specifically, I like how the mountain is a metaphor for an eye opening experience. The doc ends with this symbol and I think it's really fitting. Just the way coming to Ethiopia opened your eyes and allowed you to see what you normally wouldn't, a mountain top is a place where you can literally see everything. I loved how you drew the parallel between these two ideas at the end of the film.

In another comparison I like how the man said we lived our lives in valleys and not on mountain tops. Again, the parallel being that; in a valley our view on what else is out there is extremely limited and it's a place of comfort especially for Americans living a very comfortable lifestyle. The valley essentially represents what we don't see in life (the poor conditions in other countries such as Ethiopia) because were stuck in a place of comfort (the valley) I love how you draw to a relevant issue in society today to communicate a social message. In my opinion this is the greatest asset any film can carry, much less a doc. Great job.

The depth behind this concept really sold me on how worthwhile and bursting with life, this film really is.

Kicklighter's team did a great job and with this film's depth and meaning as well as it's entertainment value this doc is geared to both; win awards and prosper in the public's eye.

A powerful film

[jacksoneagan · 8/10 · 13 August 2010]

For all who have traveled to an impoverished region and interacted with the local people, Land of Higher Peace is a powerful and poignant film. When I lived in a rural town in the Dominican Republic in 2009, I experienced many similar scenes of poverty and hunger, so this film hit home for me. It is interesting to note, though, that in both the D.R. and Ethiopia, all the people seem to have an inner joy, despite having so little. I remember encountering some of the poorest--and happiest--people I'd ever met. Strange to think that we, who have so much, are so often unhappy.

This film struggles a little with finding a central theme. It starts off talking about a man who founded a deaf school, then about farms that need more workers, then a school for orphans. In the beginning we are constantly wondering what the film is about. However, by the end, I think it succeeds in capturing a feeling of Ethiopia's lands and people. Given the title, "Land of Higher Peace," I understand that that is what the filmmakers were going after.

The raw emotions from the crew after they leave the community made of plastic shelters are the most powerful part of the film. The honesty of their reactions, especially that of the man who wanted to take the Ethiopian boy back to the States, is unforgettable.

Overall, a great documentary. I look forward to seeing more of projects in the future.

Very Well Done

[hjmledman · 10/10 · 22 February 2011]

This film is an excellent piece that inspires action without playing the pity card. It shows both need and hope. It highlights the ability of people to survive quite happily with so much less than we do, and yet motivates us to help just a little bit more, knowing that our efforts make a difference.

It's nice to see a film that doesn't make you feel guilty for living where you live (ie. in a land of wealth and plenty). Instead, it makes you want to use your resources to bless others around the world. This is a stark contrast to many films highlighting third world countries. Sometimes the need is portrayed as so great that it makes you feel like even the small amount you want to do won't make a difference. So, I say, well done!

Outstanding content and artistry

[scottbach · 10/10 · 15 August 2010]

While humanitarian organizations such as World Vision and Compassion International produce high-quality informational videos and documentaries about their work in impoverished companies, Mark Stokes' film, "Land of Higher Peace," rivals such productions with its quality and emotional depth.

Throughout the film, the viewer is drawn into the poverty-infested country of Ethiopia without being unfairly manipulated by cheap emotional landmines. One witnesses and experiences the sights and sounds of the orphanage, the market, and the slums as if he were actually traveling along with the team in the film. While the film does an excellent job of capturing the emotions and the experiences of the team, free of coercion, one can hardly watch and NOT be personally drawn in and deeply affected.

As if the brilliant videography and editing weren't enough, the beautiful musical score transports the viewer directly to the soil of Ethiopia with its haunting melodies and instrumentation. Bruce Kiesling's expert production enhances the film with indescribable depth and artistry.

The JamesWorks team is to be commended for such an authentic yet artful rendering of but one tiny story in the epic novel of eradicating poverty and caring for the hurting.

The Ball Is In My Court. What should I do? What will I do?

[eje7773 · 10/10 · 22 November 2010]

I did not know what to expect before viewing, Land Of Higher Peace. The cinematography,and the sounds of this fine work gently swayed my senses and won me over in a most profound and peaceful fashion. That very peace opened my heart to another world far more troubled and complicated than my own. Compassion flooded my heart and mind and challenged my very core to rise up from my comfortable bed of complacency. I now aspire to know God's purpose for me in the lives and world in which He so lovingly created. However, I know myself better than anyone but The Lord Himself. I know that time rapidly passes and my addiction to complacency could easily take up residence in my heart and mind once again. In my youth I had a country pastor who would say, "Sometimes you've got to put legs on your prayers."