The documentary is centered on Ainara Sofia, a 10-year-old girl who resides with her parents in "El Paraíso" (Paradise), a neighborhood in Bogotá, Colombia. The house where Ainara and her family live, however, is far more than just their residence; it doubles as "Biblioteca Comunitaria Violeta" (Violeta Community Library). It's a workplace for Ainara's parents, a learning center for youth in the community, and Ainara's "El Paraíso." The dialogue is in Spanish with English subtitles.
This film tackles issues that permeate society worldwide: family time being impeded upon as parents work long hours, and the inaccessibility of learning resources. Just like Ainara's family, people have sought and found workarounds to these issues to improve their lives and the lives of others. Not only is the film relatable on a global scale, but how Ainara's life is portrayed benefits the audience, as the progression of events is made concise and easy to follow. The camera work dictates the visual storytelling of the film. With the opening shot of children on a playground, the wide shots of buildings clustered together, and the close-ups of murals within "El Paraiso," the theme of community is emphasized without needing that to be said outright. The background music is extraordinary, driving a positive and energetic beat throughout the film. It made me want to get up and dance. The focal point of the film is spectacularly portrayed as a closely knit community whose members truly care for one another. This is exemplified through "Biblioteca Comunitaria Violetta," which connects Ainara's parents closely to Ainara, her sister and other children in the community. In a world filled with struggles and hardships, I deeply appreciate the efforts of communities like these. My favorite part is when Ainara details what "Biblioteca Comunitaria Violetta" is and how it came to be. What I find most touching about this is Ainara's mention that the library was named after Violetta, a child in "El Paraiso" who passed away. Although death is a morbid topic, this illustrates the community's resolve to push through while honoring those that have passed.
The film's message is to always look out for your family and community.
I give Ainara's Paradise 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Christian C., KIDS FIRST!
The documentary is centered on Ainara Sofia, a 10-year-old girl who resides with her parents in "El Paraíso" (Paradise), a neighborhood in Bogotá, Colombia. The house where Ainara and her family live, however, is far more than just their residence; it doubles as "Biblioteca Comunitaria Violeta" (Violeta Community Library). It's a workplace for Ainara's parents, a learning center for youth in the community, and Ainara's "El Paraíso." The dialogue is in Spanish with English subtitles.
This film tackles issues that permeate society worldwide: family time being impeded upon as parents work long hours, and the inaccessibility of learning resources. Just like Ainara's family, people have sought and found workarounds to these issues to improve their lives and the lives of others. Not only is the film relatable on a global scale, but how Ainara's life is portrayed benefits the audience, as the progression of events is made concise and easy to follow. The camera work dictates the visual storytelling of the film. With the opening shot of children on a playground, the wide shots of buildings clustered together, and the close-ups of murals within "El Paraiso," the theme of community is emphasized without needing that to be said outright. The background music is extraordinary, driving a positive and energetic beat throughout the film. It made me want to get up and dance. The focal point of the film is spectacularly portrayed as a closely knit community whose members truly care for one another. This is exemplified through "Biblioteca Comunitaria Violetta," which connects Ainara's parents closely to Ainara, her sister and other children in the community. In a world filled with struggles and hardships, I deeply appreciate the efforts of communities like these. My favorite part is when Ainara details what "Biblioteca Comunitaria Violetta" is and how it came to be. What I find most touching about this is Ainara's mention that the library was named after Violetta, a child in "El Paraiso" who passed away. Although death is a morbid topic, this illustrates the community's resolve to push through while honoring those that have passed.
The film's message is to always look out for your family and community.
I give Ainara's Paradise 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Christian C., KIDS FIRST!
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