“I was studying and watching this for inspiration for a research paper the other night, and found it gave me more inspiration than I could have ever imagined! I cried a number of times. I thank everyone in this film for shining light on a subject I was completely ignorant to before.”
Posted by: Sabrina on March 6, 2010

“I was just casually watching the Independent Lens Program about blind teenagers in Texas. My casual watching turned to anger when I saw how a young boy (Isaac) was allowed to go blind because the medical community could not find a way to do an emergency repair of Isaac’s detached retina. In the big, rich state of Texas, wasn’t there one person or organization that could have prevented Isaac from going blind?”
Posted by: James Stokely on March 5, 2010

“I came home late from work last night and watched this episode while eating dinner in front of the TV. This in itself is not unusual, but the tears I shed as the birthday girl reflected on her birthdays past were. I am a grown man and have little understanding of teenage girls feelings but I couldn’t help reflecting on my own b-days and how lucky I was. My wish for Denise is that she comes to find her place in this world and realizes that she is a beautiful, smart, fun girl who will make many friends in her life and have many b-days full of joy. I will think of her every time I blow out my own candles and wish her the best. Great episode!”
Posted by: Sherman on March 4, 2010

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Whatever It Takes

“Wow!!! This film was very inspiring! I am a college student finishing up my teaching degree in social studies and I was just so moved by this film. Thank you for creating such an awesome film! It’s nice to see an administrator, such as Edward Tom to be so involved and invested in each of the student’s lives! This is incredible! As a future teacher, I would love to meet Ed Tom! He is very inspiring! There should be more administrators like him out there!”
Posted by: Tony on March 31, 2010

“I’m a retired social worker and former high school teacher, naturally this subject was very close to my heart. But I was blown away by the level of the graphics and art work, and also the vocal background music. Masterful and astonishing! Tom is right: smaller is better. I hold Sharifea in my heart and keep a good thought for her. She can do it!”
Posted by: E. Weibel on March 31, 2010″

I am a hardened New Yorker who frankly is pretty jaded. But Ed Tom, you deserve a medal. Really. You are doing a great service to your students and the world. This show made me tear up. Good job Ed.”
Posted by: Brooklyn P on March 31, 2010

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Young@Heart

“I watched the documentary, Young@Heart, last week and was quite moved. The director has given a great gift to the people of North Hampton and around the world.”
Posted by: Roger Millnitz on January 17, 2010

“I am 51 and hope I have the vitality that these individuals do when I get up there in years. The one song that gets me every time is Fred’s tribute to Bob, ‘Fix You.’ It moves me every time.”
Posted by: Gail on January 17, 2010

“I am in my 70s and I loved this film. The segment where the group did a concert for the jail inmates young enough to be their grandchildren was just so touching to me that it brought tears to my eyes…”
Posted by: Christina on January 18, 2010

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Interested in music programs? Learn more about our month-long celebration of music >>

Copyright Criminals

“Amazing. The first documentary I have ever wanted to see a tracklist for.”
Posted by: Don on January 19, 2010

“The show was thought provoking, insightful, well researched, but unfortunately too short. I wish this show had been AT LEAST an hour and a half (I could have watched a 3-hour version). This edition of Independent Lens is what 99% of television is missing- individuality and intelligent reflection on modern music and art.”
Posted by: Zephyr on January 20, 201

“Why would copyright holders want to, in effect, tax this art form out of existence? They should look at creating rules that allow copyright holders to opt out or in and establish rules that create a creative pie that is sliced in an agreed manner and that divides up the profits from a record between sampling producer and talent, on the one hand, and sampled copyright holders, on the other…”
Posted by: Gwain52 on January 20, 2010

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POWER PATHS

“In viewing this documentary, hearing and seeing the damage to the people in this area, just reinforces my belief that we all need to work smarter and harder to change our economy from the disastrous path corporations have put us on.”
Posted by: Beverly Franco on November 10, 2009

“I have been searching for some kind of good from people and became very excited and happy (while also releived) when I saw last nights program about the renewable energy. Now I know what path to follow. I am so proud of the American Native Indians. They’ve always been the morally good human species. Thank you for beings such an inspiration.”
Posted by: Polarbear on November 8, 2009

“I was particularily moved by the comment ‘We are the United States of America. There is no absence of resources or technology for us not to do the right thing.’ This should be a mantra for all Americans to lead the world to do the right thing.”
Posted by: Dan Knockel on November 6, 2009

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D TOUR

“I have watched a lot of Independent Lens films. But I have never experienced what I did seeing D TOUR. When Evan said ‘Your soul isn’t in your kidneys, and well, if it is, then pass it on.’ I felt something break inside me–it was my last resistance to the concept of organ donation. Sure, I’ve been a volunteer. And yes, I’ve written some checks to worthy charities. But now I feel that I can make a contribution that is far more than the sum of my parts.”
Posted by: Ellen Corsano on November 20, 2009

“Just want to tell you that your program on organ donation was the most moving program that I’ve ever seen. It moved me to donate my body with whatever organs can be used. I passed my response to my daughter who said she also felt extremely moved by your beautiful film. Thank you so much for making this important & beautiful film.”
Posted by: Lynne Knudsen on November 20, 2009

“This movie is a small miracle. It shows how terrible life can be without a transplant and how transformative is the decision to donate organs, for many, many people. Pete’s mom and Evans’ wife, Jill, are the BEST! Congratulations to Mr. Granatos and all involved in making this film, for getting all the important details ‘right’ and for making a good film at the same time.”
Posted by: Movie Fan on November 12, 2009

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NO SUBTITLES NECESSARY: Lazlo & Vilmos

“I am still welling up with emotion from last night’s viewing of NO SUBTITLES NECESSARY. The energy, dedication and passion to get the story told in an artistic, impactful way, despite overwhelming obstacles by these two wonderful men has reignited my passion for life, period.”
Posted by: Mark Bender on November 20, 2009

“This documentary was powerful and compellling. What a beautiful and amazing story of two creative artists with moxy and a wonderful way of looking at the world and living with zest. Thanks Mr. Zsigmond and may you continue to shine. You are much appreciated. This Christmas all nine people on my Christmas list are getting different copies of your movies. Stay strong.”
Posted by: Christian van Gorder on November 28, 2009

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OBJECTIFIED

“Just finished watching the show. It was very thought provoking. I was struck by the repeated views that designers were always seeking something new. I understand that newness may attract more buyers than oldness, but I am concerned about how to sustain our environmentally unsustainable lifestyle when we should be trying to recycle or reuse, and make do with less.”
Posted by: David S. on November 28, 2009

“Great documentary. Makes me think of what I’m doing with all my stuff. Ha. I’m not a designer, but I love design. I love creativity. I love innovation. This film gives me hope that these things are going in the right direction.”
Posted by: Vincent Esquivel on November 26, 2009

“I used to tell my kids, ‘It’s not what you have; it’s who you are.’ This program shows that people believe that what they have IS who they are. Not just in a showy, conspicuous consumption sort of way, either. They are what they buy. Good symbolic interactionist approach to identity: seeing yourself through the eyes of others, reacting to what you believe they see, and then incorporating your response to their reaction into your self-concept.”
Posted by: J me on November 25, 2009

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HERB & DOROTHY

“What an inspiring film! If the Vogels are ‘greedy,’ it is yet a selfless compulsion–the best kind–that recognizes beauty and the persons that grow with the art. And thanks to the filmmaker who persevered to tell this intimate, quirky story.”
Posted by: Cynthia Pon on October 15, 2009

“Congratulations to all: Herb and Dorothy for your beautiful collections and sharing your love of each other and your wonderful collections. PBS you did your viewers a great service by bringing us this magnificent presentation… It touched my heart as I am sure it did others. Thank you very much.”
Posted by: Nancy on October 14, 2009

“What an informative film, captivating. Thank you to the Vogels for sharing their story with all of us and especially for supporting artists for so many years. And thank you for the gift to the National Gallery of Art.”
Posted by: Patricia Macklin on October 14, 2009

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BUTTE, AMERICA

“My great grandfather lived in Cleveland, OH but he moved out to Anaconda in 1897-1900 to work in the copper mines. While I wish this film had more information about the years before 1900 I did enjoy learning so much about Butte and the mining, the sights, smells, sounds, dangers, fears and people… I’m so pleased I had the opportunity to view this film!”
Posted by: MT Roots on October 23, 2009

“I’ve always been proud to be from Butte, America. Thanks PBS for doing a story on such an important part of our American West history. My Dad worked in the Mountain Con Mine. He was in charge of setting the dynamite blasts. He would have loved watching this…”
Posted by: Lois Paige Simenson on October 23, 2009

“BUTTE, AMERICA was a gut wrenching story. I had no idea such conflicts and devastation had occurred in that town. Thank you for the education.”
Posted by: Bob McAvoy on October 21, 2009

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JOURNALS OF A WILY SCHOOL

“JOURNALS OF A WILY SCHOOL is one of the best films I have seen recently. Having grown up in India I could relate to the crowds, the tiny kitchen under the stairs, the police brutality, the loss of self to the bullying people in power and the disparity between the haves and have nots.”
Posted by: Tenzing Thinley on October 28, 2009

“I saw your wonderful documentary on our local PBS last night. Quite amazing job you did––reminds us of Slumdog Millionaire although I know there is no comparison to it. Good job and thank you for bringing its light to us in the States.”
Posted by: Sao on October 28, 2009

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ASK NOT

“Thank you for educating me about ‘Don’t Ask Don’t Tell.’ I am a teenager, and if I understand the need for ALL Americans to have equal opportunities, why doesn’t congress?”
Posted by: Monique on June 18, 2009

“I am not gay but when I was in Vietnam and they were shooting at me, I did not care if the guy beside me helping shoot back was gay, green yellow or whatever. Get rid of DADT. The war took years from my life and now the taxes I pay are being wasted by putting highly trained people out of the military.”
Posted by: Kenneth Mostella on June 17, 2009

“I am a lifelong military dependant, married to a career Army Officer. Both my husband and I support the full inclusion of every eligible person willing to serve… The only point of contention I had was with the Right to Serve Campaign, which in my mind will do a disservice to the advancement of equal rights… These recruiters are legally bound by the limits of this ridiculous policy. Lets continue with the discourse, it’s only a matter of time.”
Posted by: Molly on June 17, 2009

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THE ORDER OF MYTHS

“I am so glad the film was produced because this way my children and grandchildren can see parts of Mobile’s history good and bad…”
Posted by: Shirley Phelps-Pollard on June 17, 2009

“I am a middle class woman living in the south. These older organizations are more about class than anything else… New money without the right lineage will not get you in. The race aspect is tough. It’s two different cultures. Why do we have to be the same? I would have liked to attend both parties. Some like it that way and others do not. I do have to mention that because of the past, our present is rich and if we integrate all of our traditions will the cultures and customs become somehow less colorful?”
Posted by: Brigette Towler on June 10, 2009

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LIONESS

“Women are the unsung heroes of our armed forces. Thank you for this moving documentary, which brought to the forefront these brave women who sacrificed a part of themselves in a combat theatre. Your courage and strength is something my 11 year old daughter can be proud of and look up to.”
Posted by: Donald Sanchez on June 10, 2009

“I watched this film yesterday evening and was amazed. I would like to thank all the ladies for their honesty during the documentary, something we see all too little of nowadays. Specialist Shannon Morgan to me was the highlight of the film. Thanks to everyone in the making of the film we need to see more like this…”
Posted by: Legionnaire on June 4, 2009

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STEAL A PENCIL FOR ME:

“This was such an uplifting and touching story of a love that was truly meant to be. Despite the horror they endured and not knowing if they would stay alive long enough have a future together, they found each other again. The love and affection that they have for each other, even after 60+ years of marriage, renews my faith in love.”
Posted by: Abby Borgman on May 28, 2009

“What a beautiful love story in the midst of so much sadness. The mother of a friend of mine survived a concentration camp and was one of the sweetest, gracious ladies I knew growing up. I was too young at the time to realize what she must have gone through to survive and still have such a positive outlook on life everyday. Thank you for a very moving and uplifting story.”
Posted by: Cathy Sweeney on May 27, 2009

“Very, very moving! Loved Ina and Jack. This film gave a very different and more personal prospective of the Holocaust.”
Posted by: Michele Merrill on May 27, 2009

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STRANDED:
The Andes Plane Crash Survivors

“After the avalanche, when they were describing what each one felt as if they were slipping into death; the courage and strength it must have took to fight their way back. I was in awe!”
Posted by: Marla on May 22, 2009

“Despite the tragedy, overall the film was positive, giving light to smart choices made to survive and faith in each other and God. I remember hearing about this story as a kid; I’m glad this film was made to counteract the negative aspects focused on by the media way back when.”
Posted by: Kat on May 21, 2009

“This is a tremendous human story, told reverently. I don’t think I can ever forget the courage and unity the survivors showed in the face of crushing despair and physical trial.”
Posted by: Anela on May 21, 2009

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CRIPS AND BLOODS:
Made in America

“As the documentary illustrates, building more prisons will not help. The ‘war on crime’ does not help. We have to take responsibility as a country and reach out to our poor communities and strengthen their school systems and economies. Most of all, we need to reach out to them with compassion and understanding.”
Posted by: Joe on May 18, 2009

“This was an amazing, very well done documentary. It made me weep for the suffering of these young innocent boys go through and the pain their parents have to endure.”
Posted by: Celeste on May 15, 2009

“My wife and I watched this last night and were riveted to our seats. This film answered (an raised) several questions for us (a couple of latter-period baby-boomers). We’re insisting that our sons watch this film too, so we can all talk about it, and the similar manifestations of the social malaise we see in the community around us–and what we ought to be doing about it…”
Posted by: Nate on May 14, 2009

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TAKING ROOT:
The Vision of Wangari Maathai

“I have never felt such pride in my entire 36 years of life. I felt that this incredible story should be required viewing for children in all the world schools. To think that someone so unassuming and undervalued in that particular society, was capable of effecting such an epic change. Thank you PBS, for bringing this story to television. My 10 year old is getting a valued lesson in life from watching these programs with me.”
Posted by: Eurica on April 17, 2009

“I watched this beautiful, hope-inspiring, powerful story sitting upright on my bed with tears streaming down my face. It made me want to go out and start a grassroots women’s movement… It is just what we need. To use planting of trees and women as a spiritual focal point of the earths renewal, healing and protection; symbolically translating into personal renewal and healing, spreading to families, groups, communities and national pride.”
Posted by: Kathy Struewing on April 21, 2009

“This story is just what the world should be aware of at this time of economic, social, and political chaos. Keeping focus on what really matters in life is what this story teaches us.”
Posted by: Malia Cross on April 20, 2009

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RECYCLE:

“So much of our visual references to Muslims have come in disjointed clips on the evening news… I truly felt I was walking along beside this man and I so wanted to shake his hand and look him in the eye by the end of this film.”
Posted by: Harry Garvin on April 16, 2009

“At many instances the movie brought tears to my eyes. I think this story is presented more from a humanitarian perspective rather than religious conventions or beliefs. I am glad that, finally a movie such as this one was able to shed some light on the lives of people living that part of the world who are merely seeking to survive peacefully.”
Posted by: Raed on April 2, 2009

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ADJUST YOUR COLOR:
The Truth of Petey Greene

“What an excellent documentary. In this age of political correctness, I doubt very much Petey Greene would have a voice on the radio let alone TV. Thank you PBS and Independent Lens. I always look forward to the pieces that are aired.”
Posted by: HJV on February 7, 2009

“I Tivo Independent Lens and watch it when I can. I can’t tell you have much you have ignited my soul with such an awe-inspiring documentary. Petey Greene jumps off the screen and into your heart. Truly Amazing!”
Posted by: Dick Burl on February 6, 2009

“I want to thank PBS for presenting this excellent documentary about Petey Greene. I grew up in a suburb of Detroit during the 60′s and never knew about Petey Greene growing up. I admire his being so outspoken during those turbulent times.”
Posted by: Ellen Tippit on February 5, 2009

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TULIA, TEXAS:

“I was appalled by the story. It is very scary to know this could happen anywhere. I believe the prison system needs an overhaul for anyone charged with a drug charge. At times, in this nation, you do get overzealous law enforcement officials that will do anything to get a promotion or move up within their law enforcement agency.”
Posted by: Carol Stevens on February 11, 2009

“I have never seen anything as sad as what happened and is still happening to the folks in Tulia. I’d like to know how many African Americans work at decent paying jobs there, like bank tellers or in policing or any other jobs that can make a man or woman feel proud of how they’re contributing to their community. I don’t think everyone that lives there is racist but I do think there is a ‘better than’ attitude amongst the people.”
Posted by: Sharon Lamont on February 11, 2009

“I saw this documentary and was shocked, I am grateful to the filmmakers to bring this mess to our attention. It makes you take a look at your own life and think. That could have been me or my son. Kudos to the attorney’s who gave these people back the lives and their families for having the conviction to stand by their loved ones side.”
Posted by: Robin on February 13, 2009

“Racism and segregation are alive and thriving. See Atlanta. See Memphis. What’s interesting is to compare African Americans’ struggle in Tulia post-agrarianism to blacks’ struggle in America post-slavery… Here we are today with a ‘black’ president whose house is within the jurisdiction with the highest child poverty rate and homeless rate in the country. And 2.0 million African Americans live there. Someone somewhere must find that perverse. Hats off to the filmmakers. Keep ‘em coming!”
Posted by: Paul Nizov on February 11, 2009

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