Hottoceame The Age of Commercialism

Unlimitedia Sick Product of a Sick System

Platicsco Good story, Not enough for a whole film

ShangLuda Admirable film.

elokkesmoe "39 Pounds is the story of a limited man with unlimited dreams," I said to a friend. He responded: "Been there, seen that." I challenged him to watch this film, which he did. It blew away all of his expectations and presumptions -- my friend loves this film as much as I do.39 Pounds is a unique story that refuses to dwell on disabilities, hardships, or even the clichéd "overcoming difficulties." Rather, and my friend agreed, it is a well-told story of a guy, just like the rest of us, who wants to do big things, to pursue his dreams. For Ami, it is a ride on a Harley and a confrontation with a doctor who predicted a short life. Along the way there are wonderful moments of grace - the reconciliation with a brother and the disappointment of unrequited love. The characters are likable. The story is captivating. And vignettes featuring Ami's amazing 3D graphic animations -- remarkable since he can barely move his hand to create the designs -- give the viewer moments to disengage with the story and then re-enter it again.Everyone who has seen this film has loved it. Maybe that it why it is a semi-finalist for an Academy Award.

janos451 When you see the plot summary for "39 Pounds of Love," you quickly make up your mind that it's sure to be A. uncomfortable, B. a "freak show," C. a tear-jerker, D. something maudlin, and E. a film to avoid. Those elements are all there, except for the last one. It's tough-to-watch, freakish, occasionally mushy, but it is also a worthwhile movie, one that will stay with you for a long time.Dani Menkin's documentary is about Texas-born Israeli-Mexican Ami Ankilewitz, who was given six years to live at birth because of muscular dystrophy, which went on quickly to ravage his body while a toddler. At 34, weighing 39 pounds, and able to move only one finger (which he uses to create animated films), Ankilewitz embarks on a voyage across the US to face the doctor, who made that early diagnosis.Part real-time footage, part recreation (not always successful, especially in the final sequence, with the elderly Cuban doctor looking uncomfortable with the recreation of their confrontation), "39 Pounds" somehow manages to go beyond being a documentary with a message. Ankilewitz's aspiration to "normal love" will resonate with anyone ever involved in a hopeless affair, and the film maintains its integrity by telling the truth.

shaliach Ami (the "star" of 39 Pounds of Love) is originally from Laredo, Texas. A special premiere of the film was shown tonight (10/6/05) in Laredo with Ami & his mother appearing after the showing for questions.What an amazing and inspirational documentary this is! The film evoked both laughter and tears from the audience. It is a film which will give the viewer hope and a new outlook on their life because no one can see what Ami has to deal with every day and continue to think that their life is difficult. We first meet Ami at his birthday party in Israel where he declares his desire to travel to the United States. The film then goes back a year to show us why Ami chooses this path. Along the way we meet his computer animated characters, his family, friends and the woman he loves....Deserves an Oscar nomination.

j_rutgers I saw 39 Pounds of Love at the Edmonton film festival. I wasn't sure what to except, however, this film far exceeded my expectations. Ami Ankilewitz, whom the documentary is about, breaks down all the established notions of what living with a "disability" is like. He is smart, adventurous, girl-crazy and really funny! The journey he goes on in the film, to make peace with himself and with others, is such a universal story that I can't imagine someone not relating to him in some way. I left the theater with the feeling that I had experienced something really special. Top notch film-making with a truly compelling story. The visuals and music were on par with docs like Mad Hot Ballroom and My Architect. And most importantly, I think Ami's story has the potential to move people in extraordinary ways.I don't want to give much away, so I will just say if you have the opportunity to see the film (opening in NY 11/23 at Landmark Sunshine Theatre) - GO SEE IT. You will be glad you did...