Windows on the World

Windows on the World, despite the fact that it takes place in the weeks following the 9/11 terrorist attack in New York, is a film that is urgently for our time. It is a hero's journey of a son trying to find his father in that grief-stricken landscape and the characters stand in for the millions of immigrants, legal and illegal, who contribute in their everyday lives, to the American landscape. The film seeks to counter the narrative that's all-too-prevalent in today's political and media landscape by telling a story set in America's biggest and most diverse city, at its darkest time. The script by playwright and novelist Robert Mailer Anderson (who also produced the film) is wise and completely engaging; he creates indelible characters who are ultimately inspiring and uplifting. Edward James Olmos gives what he considers to be the performance of a lifetime, and the rest of the cast is terrific as well-with a special shout-out to Glynn Turman. The direction, by Olmos's son Michael, is sure-handed, getting terrific performances from his cast, including his father, in this father-son story, and it's beautifully lensed. The music, including jazz and a title track written by Anderson, is pitch-perfect, supporting the story without getting in the way. This film should be seen by everybody-and I'm sure it will be in mainstream distribution soon, as this is a time when, although the major studios may have turned their backs on substance, terrific indie films like this one have many other possible venues. If you can't see it at a film festival, like I did, keep a keen eye out for it. Terrific and inspiring!

I was very young when 9/11 happened and honestly don't remember much. I've seen the news clips and listened to the recordings, but I still had a disconnect to it. However, This movie felt like a love letter to those lost in on 9/11 and it really had an interesting premise, unlike any other 9/11 films. It was heartwrenching seeing the family react to the event all the way in Mexico and not being able to do anything. Ryan Guzman did a stunning job in his portrayal of a son doing what he can to find out the fate of his father with limited means. Truly well done and my heart ached. Honestly can't put into words everything i felt.

Wonderful film, heartfelt and beautiful acted/ filmed. Also super sound track.

It's a great idea for a film, but the result is really cheesy. It feels like a cheap soap opera at times.

It's hard to say much that's good about the film. I was gonna give it 4/10 but I feel the need to balance out all the ludicrous 10/10 reviews on here. The script, the acting, and the music are all poor (apart from one or two of the actors). The main actor has one facial expression.

Heartwarming movie with a of powerful message! Highly recommend.