Parkland Rising

I saw this film with my 14 year old son at the Woodstock Film Festival. It resonated so deeply for us both. From the terrifying and chaotic moments of shots fired and frantic 911 calls, to the mobilization of the survivors and family members of the Parkland shooting, this important documentary galvanizes all who see it to join in the mission for sensible gun laws. Utterly heart breaking, yet deeply inspiring. Parkland Rising documents the transformation of the Margory Stoneman Douglas students from survivors to activists. They are fierce and undeterred by the status quo. "The young people will win. The young people will always win."

This is a moving film that doesn't flinch from the grim reality of how gun violence is shaping a generation of young people. And the good news is that these young people aren't yet beaten down by the system and have the guts to fight back. A tear jerker for sure, but inspirational in the end.

This is heartbreaking as it should be. These kids, these parents.. I can't imagine that pain but unfortunately we live in a time where that can be changed at any minute! For all the people mad saying the same tired "you'll never take our guns" please GET AN EDUCATION and grow up! Think about people all over, not just the ones in your trailer park! It's not about nor ever been about taking your guns! Actually listen to understand instead of just listening to respond! Also the gun in the orange shirt with the cowboy hat on towards the end really thought he ate by quoting American Sniper 😂 these ppl literally are just fueled on hate and their personalities are only based on YouTube, political pushing points and movies based on brave men that they will NEVER be!! Not to mention half of the keep screaming "YOU WONT TAKE OUR GUNS" but the government already has cause they're felons! Be fr!!! Much respect to these kids and parents for their strength, bravery and grace... THATS THE FUTURE!!! #CHANGETHEREF.

This film is a powerful look at an incredibly important movement at an incredibly important moment. The interview segments are chock full of dedicated people from all walks of life who are tirelessly-and rightly-keeping our country's gun violence problem in the fore of public consciousness; they offer by example numerous actionable steps every one of us can take to effect real change. The film's riveting footage of these advocates calmly holding open discussions with anti-gun control protesters is nothing short of riveting, and may be seen as a roadmap for engaging in difficult, but necessary, conversations.

In light of the recent disappointing, Democratic-majority VA state senate vote on bump stocks, high-capacity magazines, etc., it's clear we've got a long way to go, and this work is more vital than ever. Parkland Rising is not just a sleekly presented and deeply moving document of this effort, but an inspiring call to action for anyone who still feels a civic duty in these fractured, trying times.

A reminder of the preciousness of life. Of love. Of family. The thread that binds is. The power of a voice. The healing that comes with time, with support, with the embrace of a nation. Watch Parkland Rising, now.