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Far From the Tree Reviews

Dec 25, 2024

I watch a LOT of documentaries and, for whatever reason, I had not heard about this one before Amazon Prime 'suggested' it. The film was A+ in my book. My 'phony meter' never got set off once. That is what made the stories portrayed here about the subjects and their families truly inspiring. I was glued to the screen the entire time. Great film...an important and under-publicized one!

May 16, 2020

An excellent examination of how individuals and families cope with various challenges that place them outside the mainstream of society, including Down syndrome, autism, dwarfism, homosexuality and criminality. While the documentary could use expansion in some areas and judicious snipping in others, the overall production is insightful, especially when it comes to redefining what actually constitutes the meaning of "family," as well as what conditions need to be celebrated vs. "fixed." Based on gay author Andrew Solomon's book of the same name, director Rachel Dretzin has put together a solid, captivating film that leaves viewers walking away with impressions they likely haven't considered before. Check it out on one of the home viewing options -- you won't be disappointed.

Sep 19, 2019

When the subjects are at the forefront, 'Far from the Tree' works and works well, but when the Author of the book from which this documentary was based takes center stage, the film screeches to a snobby halt. The subjects are inspirational and while you feel bad for each at first glance, by the end of our journey with each we can't help but feel raised up. Rachel Dretzin's doc undoubtedly gives us many things to ponder about people who may look different, but in reality aren't that different at all. Wife: 8.2/Husband 7.6: Final Score: 7.9/10

Jan 12, 2019

One of the best documentaries ever.

Aug 20, 2018

This was one of the most inspiring movies I've seen in a long time.

Aug 14, 2018

Uplifting and life afirming documentary about different people who are simply who they are.

Aug 13, 2018

This movie is iconic, real, inspiring and shares the challenges and triumphs that every family has experienced in some way. The families who opened their lives for this documentary have unsurpassed courage. This needs to be on every venue available- theatres, Netflix, etc. please help spread the word- I have friends and families who don't have the venues available.

Aug 13, 2018

I Think it's A Great Powerful Message to People that They Can understand acceptance And Love and How With Different Stories Can Make A Change See this Documentary take your Friends and Family to See this Wonderful Documentary you Will Love it Brings You Tears of Joy

Aug 8, 2018

I cried about 8 times watching this. I've worked with kids with autism, Down syndrome, and various other disabilities for years, but to see such an intimate view of these individuals and their families is truly touching, heartbreaking, and eye-opening. Highly recommend.

Aug 5, 2018

Such a great message about differences in life; each of our lives. Go see it.

Aug 5, 2018

As a parent and educator, this was incredibly powerful for me. There's no way to watch this and not come away with a new perspective.

Aug 5, 2018

Fantastic! Everyone needs to see this movie!

Aug 4, 2018

The original book changed my life as a parent. It was a great solace and wise companion in trying to learn to parent my child. The film adds more insight into Andrew personally. Like the book, the film is tremendously humane & a great conversation starter. Deserves wide release and could be used be a wide variety of parenting groups. Parents with older children and teens could also use it to talk about Down's Syndrome, autism, dwarfism, criminality, sexuality...and the ways we can be called to embrace one another's uniqueness, form family, and to love.

Aug 4, 2018

Ugly tears to happy tears...A series of heart-touching stories that gives you great perspective on the struggles and the joys these families are dealing with...children with disabilities. I walked away realizing that society has a larger disability in not seeing beautiful people as equals!

Aug 4, 2018

What a life changing film! It has made me re-examine many of my relationships and opinions about humanity. I initially thought of it as a "must-see" for anyone working with children and families (all my fellow teachers) but upon further consideration it should be a "must see" for everyone!

Aug 4, 2018

This is a phenomenal movie.

Aug 4, 2018

The real honesty of this movie was riveting from start to finish. I left inspired by the lives of those featured and with new perspective on the life I have, in spite of its own challenges. This film makes every one who sees it more compassionate human beings.

Aug 4, 2018

- Amazing movie with a powerful message. Sending this out to my entire network .

Aug 4, 2018

Eye awakening and very poignant. I was emotional the entire time. By far one of the best films I have EVER seen. To see the journey of all the individuals involved in this film makes you really appreciate the blessings one has in his/her own life. The best quote of the film comes from Jack Allnutt when he typed for the first time, "I am trying. I'm really smart." What a breakthrough!

Aug 4, 2018

Proud to be a part of this films message!

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