Austinist: SXSW Film Review: Garbage Dreams

AndrewP

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:11:02 -0600

A definite must see! Find out where this film is playing, and make a point to see it! First time director Mai Iskander delivers a rare glimpse into the underbelly of a world literally buried in tons of garbage, to reveal a community of hard working, warm, generous people on the brink of being outsourced from the only way of survival they know. This beautifully painted portrait of three teenage "expert recyclers" is shocking, eyeopening, thought provoking, heartbreaking, heartwarming, humorous and unforgetable. While you may be tempted to stand up and shout, "LET THESE PEOPLE DO THEIR JOBS"!; this viewer hopes you will opt to spread the word and do a better job in your own community.

MirandaS

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 18:22:35 -0600

I went to "Garbage Dreams" with some of my high school friends and my younger sister. We were one of the lucky ones to get a seat at the final screening on Thursday, I heard that all three screenings at SXSW were sold out. I learned so much watching this movie. It really opened my eyes to issues of poverty, globalization and recycling. Now, I always think twice before throwing something out in the trash. The boys in the film were awesome and inspiring (and cute)!

MaxA

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:59:20 -0600

'Garbage Dreams' is sensitive and intimate portrayal of three teenage boys fraught with teenage angst who grow up to be young men in one of the most unlikely places: a garbage city. This film's eerie, beautiful imagery and intimate cinema verite photography instantly drew me into their obscure world, and somehow made me feel right at home. Each of the teenage boys in the film toil and suffer; are steadfast and philosophical when they must be; are toughen by their surroundings; yet they still dare to dream. Beyond the film’s cinematic beauty and human drama, 'Garbage Dreams' is filled with invaluable lessons and rich inspirations to creating a sustainable future. An incredibly well done documentary. Amazing! I highly recommend this film.

nickc

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 12:13:04 -0600

Yes! This movie was inspiring; after the premier Adham was in attendance. He clearly was overwhelmed by the crowd's standing ovation, and expressed a love for Terra Burger (he said they recycle a large percentage of their wastes,) through interpreter.