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I'm Not Ashamed

I'm Not Ashamed (2016)

Oct 21, 2016 1h 53m Drama

Based on the journal entries of Rachel Joy Scott, the first student killed in the Columbine High School shooting in 1999.

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Directed by Brian Baugh

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Brian Baugh
Writer
  • Philipa Booyens
  • Bodie Thoene
  • Robin Hanley
  • Kari Redmond

Reviews

Reno
6/10

**Life. For some people it is worth living for something!**

Based on the journal of a person who had got killed in the 1999 shooting at a high school in the US. Really inspiring character and the story, till that final horror event. But the real shame was, the filmmakers used it to promote religious. Or maybe they have highlighted too much from the religious aspect. Because, her life and that horrific event connected with her unexpected prediction which are only a coincident, rather any miracle from heaven. I'm not against believers, but I anticipated honest, a reality, not fantasy.

So coming to the film, apart from misusing a real person's life, it was a nice film. Nice casting and performances. Masey McLain was so pretty and awesome in her role. Don't expect it to be the film about that 1999 shooting. It was not about that, except it had a connection as everything was built behind it. They have shown very little from that angle towards the end. Some of the real footage attached in those parts. Yeah, the end was emotional as expected. Everyone might not find it a good film for what I had told earlier, nevertheless the true story deserves some respect.

_6/10_

Oct 22, 2017

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, I'm Not Ashamed examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Brian Baugh brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of I'm Not Ashamed took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $1.5 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 113 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 149 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 2016, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While I'm Not Ashamed shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Henry Poole Is Here, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, I'm Not Ashamed subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Georgia Rule and Battle in Seattle explore similar territory, I'm Not Ashamed stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: October 21, 2016
  • Runtime: 1h 53m
  • Budget: $1,500,000
  • Revenue: $2,082,980

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