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On Her Shoulders

On Her Shoulders (2018)

Dec 06, 2018 1h 35m Documentary

Nadia Murad, a 23-year-old Yazidi, survived genocide and sexual slavery committed by ISIS. Repeating her story to politicians and media, this ordinary girl finds herself thrust onto the world stage as the voice of her people. Away from the podium, she must navigate bureaucracy, fame and people's good intentions.

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Directed by Alexandria Bombach

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Alexandria Bombach
Producer
  • Hayley Pappas
  • Brock Williams

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Thematic Analysis

On Her Shoulders represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Alexandria Bombach 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2018, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of On Her Shoulders took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
  • The film contains approximately 2067 individual shots.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2018, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While On Her Shoulders shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Hunt for Jihadi John, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, On Her Shoulders offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Beside Heroes and I Was a Yazidi Slave explore similar territory, On Her Shoulders stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: December 6, 2018
  • Runtime: 1h 35m

Where to Watch

Amazon Prime Video
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