Inspirational Documentaries & Cultural Films
This should be required viewing for all teachers. "When he became a teacher in the 1940s, Albert Cullum realized something was lacking in his classes and decided to stray from the by-the-book, discipline-heavy style favored by his colleagues, instead using poetry and drama to put life and emotion into his teaching. This documentary from Leslie Sullivan (produced by Catherine Gund) depicts a man who challenged traditional teaching methods and proved that creativity has a place in every classroom." Netflix. Available on: "Instant play"- Netflix. Ask yourself? Would you have had a better school experience if Albert Cullum was your teacher? Do you agree or disagree with his teaching style and why? Would you want your kids to be taught by Albert Cullum? Why or why not? If you had a bad experience in school do you think that you could accept that perhaps it was not your fault? Could you find a way to move on from the past and add creativity to your life and the lives of your kids? On a personal note: My first love was also acting and I didn't make it. However, I had wonderful acting coaches that were in fact life coaches for me. They helped me to achieve confidence, pride, and a love for life within myself that I had never known before. In addition, I learned about other kinds of people and cultures. I was exposed to many different people, professions, and life experiences due to acting. I incorporate creativity and acting exercises(for adults) within our mental health life coaching.
http://www.pbs.org/thisemotionallife/series "This Emotional Life" Aired on PBS Discusses Emotions and Creativity. This is a must see for all people searching for happiness that would like to read about what evidence-based research has to say about it. Mario’s Story (2007) An inspiring documentary about fighting for justice and saving your spirit. It was filmed over a seven year period and is based on the true story of Mario Rocha. A nun working with Mario in Juvenile Hall sees the truth and leaves her work in order to become a full time advocate for Mario. She solicits a fine team of lawyers to work pro bono on behalf of Mario. The team goes to work with one mission. To get Mario the fair trial that he didn't have the first time around. This documentary depicts Mario's life as he evolves from an incarcerated teen to an adult in prion and discovers his gift of spirit and talent for writing. Mario teaches all of us the power of creative journaling, hope, and visioning what you want even if everything around you is bleak. Available on Netflix (Play Instant) I added Mario's blog below. http://mariostory.typepad.com/ If you are under age please watch only with permission. Ask Yourself: - How did you feel when you observed Mario's first trial? -How did you feel when you heard Mario's attitude and stories from his journal and plays? - How and where in your life could this attitude help you? - How would this make you feel if you could have a positive attitude such as Mario during your struggles? -Would it help your self-esteem? How and why? Did this film inspire you to change your life or create new thought? Please share. We'd love to hear from you. I think that you can google the "Color of Fear" or visit the Directors site: Lee Mun Wah/ www. stirfryseminars.com They are located in Berkeley, CA. I had the pleasure of participating in a recent training with him. He told me that I presumed a lot. Really embarrassing but his film is great and I am working on not presuming so much. I know that the documentary is not available on Netflix. Ask Yourself: - How did you feel as you observed the film? -How did you feel when you heard from each of the participants? - How and where in your life could this attitude help you? - How would this make you feel if you released all prejudices? -Would it help your self-esteem? How and why? Did this film inspire you to change your life or create new thought? Please share. We'd love to hear from you. The following is a short preview from You Tube.
10 Questions for the Dalai Lama(2006) NR (Documentary) This fascinating documentary intertwines an interview with the Dalai Lama, a look back at the history of the spiritual leader and an exploration of the culture of the small city of Dharamsala, India, where His Holiness was exiled 50 years ago. After emailing the Dalai Lama to set up an interview, filmmaker Rick Ray spends the three months until the promised meeting getting a firsthand view of the living conditions and economy in Dharamsala. (Review by Netflix) Genre: Inspirational Biographies, Faith & Spirituality Documentaries, Religion & Mythology Documentaries Format: DVD and streaming Beginning with Rome's fall in the fifth century, this History Channel presentation sheds light on the Dark Ages, covering the continent wide chaos, including raids by Vikings, Vandals and Visigoths, bubonic plague, famine, civil unrest and more. The program takes viewers from the darkest of times to the dawn of a new beginning as the turmoil besieging Europe gives rise to the Crusades, the Enlightenment and the Renaissance.(Review by Netflix) With depth, breadth and richness, Native American history is told through indigenous eyes in this revolutionary five-part docudrama. Exploring five pivotal periods, the series spans 300 years of Indian adversity, resilience and self-determination. Benjamin Bratt narrates the sweeping series as it reexamines a cornerstone of America's story and offers insight into how history's heartbreak and hope resonate with American Indians today.(Review by Netflix)
(1977) NR This legendary TV miniseries -- an adaptation of author Alex Haley's groundbreaking novel that details the history of his own family from slavery to emancipation -- received five Emmy Awards, as well as a Golden Globe for Best Dramatic TV Series. With a dynamic ensemble cast, this rousing epic features LeVar Burton, in his acting debut, portraying Haley's ancestor, Kunta Kinte, who was kidnapped from his African village and sold into slavery. (Review by Netflix) Genre: TV Miniseries, African-American Dramas, Dramas Based on the Book Format: DVD Cinematherapy Guide
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