Harrowing but Stunning

Rating: 9/10 (5 January 2013)

I find it hard to believe that people are judging this film with a racial outlook or saying that it is trite. This is a TRUE STORY. This family exists and went through the terror that was the tsunami. They came forward and volunteered their story and to cheapen it with racial remarks, or to say that the emotion is 'corny,' is disgusting.
Would it really effect you more if it was a Thai family's ordeal? The whole point of this fim is that in the face of adversity people from all backgrounds become equal; they have to band together to survive. It is about a family's love and strength and it is a beautiful mess. I was really affected by the film and couldn't help but put myself into the family's position. The terror, pain and confusion in each scene is palpable.
There are some bits that feel manipulative due to the overarching score but, when judged as a whole, it is a completely real, harrowing story that will have you phoning your family after to tell them that you love them.