Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this moving documentary -- while focused on the strength and resilience of its Sudanese subjects -- details their difficult lives as orphans in Sudan and refugees in Kenya and the United States (where they face significant economic difficulties). Their stories are complicated and sad and include losing family members to state-sanctioned violence. One of the young men seeks and eventually finds his mother and siblings, leading to a very emotional reunion.

Sexual Content

The boys see TV ads (for exercise machines) that feature girls in bikinis and leotards.

Violence

Sad early images of children starving in Ethiopia and Kenya; interviewees tell terrible stories of community massacres and violence against their families.

Language

Not applicable

Social Behavior

The Sudanese men are resourceful and patient; the people they meet on camera are all decent; very emotional reunion of mother and her "lost" son.

Consumerism

Thematic (some discussion of the commercial aspects of Christmas in the U.S.) and referential (Pepsi, Coca-Cola, one young man works at Mellon Bank), as well as some background imagery (Ritz crackers, Marlboro cigarettes billboard, smiley face logo in window).

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable