Five Years North

Another inspiring and important film to watch by filmmakers Chris Temple and Zach Ingrasci. The sequence of events and the personal stories offers a deeply personal look at our complex and daunting immigration system from multiple angles and perspectives. A must watch!

Once again, filmmakers Chris Temple and Zach Ingrasci show us the human side of polarizing political issues. I have long used their previous films, Living on One Dollar and Salam Neighbor, in my writing classes to generate meaningful discussion, and now I'll definitely add Five Years North. Your heart will break for Luis, a young Guatemalan teen with responsibilities well beyond his years. The other side of the issue is humanized by Judy, the ICE agent who must enforce the law. The filmmakers don't preach but give you stories that will make you think twice before you generalize about issues like immigration, poverty, and refugees. Please watch this movie and encourage others to watch it, too.

I'm a huge fan of everything Optimist has put out, starting with their documentary Living On One Dollar, which is when they originally met Luis, the main subject of Five Years North. This film is gripping, and truly takes you through the highs and lows of the immigrant experience, from the angle of young Luis to the ICE officer whose background + upbringing is a pretty major reveal. Don't miss it -- add this to your watchlist asap.

Truly moving film that puts the viewer directly next to both sides of an incredibly pertinent issue in today's world. Told with frankness, empathy and compassion while never losing sight of its narrative purpose. An inspiring film.

This story delivers everything, and MORE. As the journey follows Luis, we are able to see his battles, cheers, and his kindness. The foil of his ICE officer provides such a strong distinction that builds a deep understanding in the two sides of immigration in society. This is not a typical immigration documentary, and its storytelling capabilities define its uniqueness.