Like Abbas Kiarostami's documentary ABC Africa (2001), the result is an unexpectedly joyous film about heavy subjects.

| Apr 9, 2020

If the rule is "show, don't tell," then Liyana is a success.

| Oct 22, 2018

The children's stories alone would have been compelling, but illustrating them in this medium adds even more depth, nuance and emotion.

| Oct 18, 2018

As tough as the subject matter may get at times, the film is guaranteed to be an uplifting one for viewers of all ages, with its emphasis placed on the joy of its subjects, whether it be in their everyday life or in the midst of their creative process.

| Original Score: 3.5/4 | Oct 10, 2018

There are ways in which "Liyana" might seem to put too rosy a spin on its subject matter, but it shows the optimism and self-awareness that can come from creativity.

| Oct 10, 2018

A film for enterprising, discussion-inclined parents and teachers to share with their own young ones, passing the story on in the process.

| Oct 10, 2018

The world desperately needs to see more stories like this.

| Sep 19, 2018

A spirited testament to the power of creativity - not only as a source of strength and joy, but as a way to access buried emotions.

| Jul 10, 2017