The Year 12 students following the Humanities and Performing Arts pathways, had the opportunity to analyze the film Blood Brother in English, with English subtitles, as part of the American Film Fest. This activity is integrated into the transcultural curriculum within the eTwinning programme. The students have provided very insightful comments, reflecting deeply on the movie, its themes, and its emotional impact. This has been an enriching experience, fostering human and social values.
BLOOD BROTHER
Rocky Braat, lacking the emotional stability he yearns for, has always wanted a family, perhaps due to his almost nonexistent one. Living with his best friend, Steve, he embarks on a journey through India with no specific destination, hoping to find himself. By chance, he encounters an orphanage housing children with AIDS, radically changing his life. Attached to their affection, feeling useful and fulfilled for the first time, Rocky fights to support the children. However, the poverty and illness they endure often lead to harsh and desperate situations. This poignant and tender film brings us close to those who, without intending to, devote their lives to helping others.
Steve Hoover, Rocky Braat’s best friend, felt compelled to make this film during his visit to Rocky in India—a project he wouldn’t have planned otherwise. With both rawness and tenderness, it portrays Rocky’s daily struggles, fears, intense emotions, dependencies, and encounters with both death and life. Blood Brother is an intense and emotional documentary that has deeply moved juries and audiences at festivals like Sundance, where it won both the Grand Jury Prize for Best Documentary and the Audience Award. Furthermore, Rocky’s journey continues beyond the film, as he remains in India, sharing updates through social media on his ongoing efforts and progress. A necessary and impactful piece of cinema.
Awards:
- Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival.
- Audience Award at the 2013 Atlanta Film Festival.
- Best Documentary at the 2013 Milano Film Festival.
