The Stand Up Doll

This is a lovely little doc about keeping the cup half full, even when life throws all she's got at you. The film's subject, Risa, with a hundred years under her belt, is a nice reminder that life should be lived to the fullest...Also notable is the filmmaker's own personal reflection as the narrator. Insightful, curious, thoughtful.

What an amazing film about such a wonderful woman. The way she can take so much tragedy and still have so much joy is really very inspiring and honestly motivating. It really reminded me that I will be able to make it through the hardships in my own life. I just hope I can do so with as much grace as Risa.

Writer/Director Evelyne Tollman has simply made a remarkable film! That said, it goes to show how many truly remarkable people are among us if we take the time to engage, to listen to them tell their story. I highly suggest, recommend this gem of a film to all. A huge thumbs up from me!!

I thoroughly enjoyed this documentary. I didn't get to know my grandparents because three died before I was even born. I had to learn who they were from my parents. Watching this I get the feeling I'd have had the same feelings listening to their past. Risa has a life force many don't at any age. We see and hear about the moments in her past in Nazi Germany and we feel the anger she still holds for Vienna even though she says she's forgiven those that call it their home. But the common thread throughout the film for me was music. Risa's love of it - her ability to play the piano and her obvious joy in singing, in 10 languages mind you - and dancing - even at 98. We wonder why she keeps standing up after every setback. Well I believe it's the music in her soul. A song in her head and her heart. Something we all have felt but never understood the significance of keeping it there. Risa reminded me of that. I won't soon forget it. The film is a gentle piece, made gracefully by the narrator, Evelyne. It's very good work.

The Stand Up Doll is a pretty remarkable documentary. The film is about the life and perspective of nearly 100 year old Risa Ingelfeld who has lived an incredibly full life. We meet Risa through director Evelyne Tollman, who is featured on camera as well, who developed a relationship with Risa and began filming with her about 15 years ago. I should note quickly that I've seen Evelyne Tollman's work as an actress in the film Somebody's Mother, which is also quite good. We learn a great deal about Risa in The Stand Up Doll, but what stands out the most is her remarkable spirit and zest for life given that she survived the Nazi invasion. If you are the type of person like me who really appreciates a deep look into the interesting lives of ordinary people who are, in fact, extraordinary, then give The Stand Up Doll a watch.