They Who Surround Us

If you've never lived n the prairies, you are in for a full tour. The footage of fields and farms and small town Ukrainian Canadian prairie life in the late 80's is stunning and full of reminisce. The story is both a classic family history for many of the Ukrainian diaspora and a story of personal tragedy. A stand out is the actress playing the aunt- her looks speak moe than words. It is a moving and beautiful film telling a unique Ukrainian Canadian story.

So, full disclosure here - I am the composer on this film, and in response to what appears to be an almost vengeful review below, which lacks both a nuanced understanding of the film and any sort of authority that would convey the writer knows what he is talking about - here is what the genius Canadian filmmaker Atom Egoyan had to say:

'A sensitive and complex study of grief, as it filters through a family and echoes in historic memory. Centred on a riveting performance by Troy Ruptash, who makes his directorial debut with this ambitious film.'

I think I'll trust Atom Egoyan's opinion on this, and the many many audience members across Canada who have written and expressed how deeply moved they have been by this film.

No swearing, no violence, no gory scenes...it can be done. I really liked this movie. I may be a little biased being that my ancestors are from Ukraine. I base whether a drama is good or bad, on how much I had an emotional attachment to the main character, and I did... very much. It is slow moving, but I really didn't mind.

The plot for "They who surround us" is weak and the direction does not help much. The movie goes back and forth with past and present and does not develop from that. The script is shallow and we do not have a sense or feel of the pain the main character is going through. We see the images but not the feeling. Troy Ruptash is a good actor, but his direction falls short.

The could be an hour movie long.

I was raised on a farm not far from Vegreville so aside from the touching account of our Ukrainian beginnings, this was a wonderful reflection of memories from my youth.

Troy Ruptash portrays his character with such realism and heart that at times, I forgot I was watching a movie. Brilliant!

The young boy in the movie who played young Roman, Pierce Briggs, is a definite up and comer! He was great!!

The cinematography was amazing in this film. The prairie landscape was breathtaking.

Thank you for bringing rural Alberta to the big screen. I look forward to more and more, Troy!