IslandGuru Who payed the critics

Grimossfer Clever and entertaining enough to recommend even to members of the 1%

filippaberry84 I think this is a new genre that they're all sort of working their way through it and haven't got all the kinks worked out yet but it's a genre that works for me.

Nicole I enjoyed watching this film and would recommend other to give it a try , (as I am) but this movie, although enjoyable to watch due to the better than average acting fails to add anything new to its storyline that is all too familiar to these types of movies.

nadeto-ch This movie is a brilliant representation of both the political situation in a certain part of the world at that time AND mental illnesses inside out. It intertwines the two into a story that captures what the reality of a lot of ordinary people used to be back then, stuff we never actually get to see in movies. Even a slight hereditary mental illness could grow and devour a person completely in such a toxic environement. I'd recommend the movie to anybody who wants to see a fresh aproach on the topic in a beautifully executed form.

Diana Kelly This afternoon at the Palm Springs International Film Festival I saw this wonderful film. Signe Baumane is a gifted animator and storyteller, integrating her family's story with events in Latvian history. Every family has skeletons in the closet, and Signe's is no exception. The difference is that she tells us the story of mental illness in her family as if she is talking to a close and trusted friend. Her approach uses humor and a realistic approach which draws us in and helps us to gain a better understanding of the challenges she and others in her family have faced. This is a brave and touching story, and an important story to share with others. Signe - congratulations on an outstanding film!

Aija Marie Ozols Gibson This is one of the most important films of our generation. A must-see. A stunning, rich, poignant piece which exposes issues that no other filmmakers have been brave enough to address. Watching it is like having a window into the minds of writers and artists who we have lost to depression and suicide- the contrast of the fight for survival, living with enhanced sensitivity, and struggling with the often cruel and icy world in which one is expected to thrive. It is a masterfully-woven visual story; comedic at times, captivating, and filled with tears and wonder. The gift of hearing the film-maker's voice throughout the movie reminds you that there is, indeed, living hope. One of the few films I am looking forward to purchasing and handing down to the next generation.

Elizabeth Whittemore Mental illness is a hot button issue these days. We pretend to address it but if we're being honest, we continue to sweep it under the rug. In a brand new film by writer/director Signe Baumane, we follow the true story of her familiar heritage, specifically with undiagnosed bouts of severe depression. Created in an animation of mixed media forms, Rocks In My Pockets is a visually stunning masterpiece. Baumane narrates each individual story, illustrating the ignorance and fragility of those who "feel too much." There is an aura of bedtime story or campfire lore while in the same instance, education and awareness being brought to life. The uniqueness of the animation allows Baumane to take visual liberties in her storytelling. It's like watching one long, extremely vivid dream. It is an important film in a time where far too many people are being over or under medicated. It may be a gateway to a greater understanding and tolerance of what we do yet have a grasp on. Most likely, each one of us is directly affected by mental illness. It is a beautiful conversation starter.