Rise & Shine: The Jay DeMerit Story

I could probably re-iterate what the other reviews have already said about how impacting and empowering Jay's story is, and it really is, however; I will instead explain more why I'm even taking the time to write a review. It is true, Jay truly has a remarkable story, and it is one that people, soccer and non soccer fans alike can really enjoy, but why I find it so impacting is because Jay brings back to life the American spirit of working hard and fighting for a dream, and never because he felt entitled to have it.

During a time where we live in an America that feels entitled to what it has and have a generation that doesn't really grasp the fundamentals of what America was built upon, here you can re-live a story about a man who steps out of the box and his own comfort zone and works hard for what he wants at the high chance it may not happen, when all doors at one point seemed closed. He didn't sit and feel sorry for himself, didn't wait for something to happen because he felt he should earned it simply because he tried once, and didn't wait for a door to re-open when they all closed; he instead fought harder, continued to pursue what he wanted, and kicked a door back open. Now a days we have a youth that think they deserve a raise simply because they show up to work every day and never call out (like they're suppose to). That's what I love about this film and what I think people can benefit from; being Jay's attitude, positivity, and humbleness.

So sure, you can probably read about it and get the gist of his story as well, but what you don't get from reading and WILL get from watching this film is connecting with Jay and re-living his path to achieving his dream and success. It's like you were apart of it at the time it happened, and you really do feel motivated and inspired, a feeling we definitely could use right now during times like these.

Rise and Shine: The Jay Demerit Story is a chronicle of the impossible journey of Jay Demerit. The movie takes you from Jay's humble beginnings in Green Bay Wisconsin to the top ranks of English football, the world cup, and professional soccer. Most people would have given up in the face of the adversities Jay encountered. However, Mr. Demerit's perseverance, hard work, and relentless pursuit of his dreams drove him from a substitute position in the English pub league to the English Premiere League. Throughout the movie, it becomes apparent that Jay had a lot of people that believed in him and supported him. Among his greatest supporters are Ranko Tutulugdzija and Nick Lewis who wrote and directed the movie and financed the film with their life savings, donations from the website kickstarter.com, and by going into debt. Zach Salsman was the cinematographer. Ranko, Nick, and Zach all deserve kudos for pulling together such a well structured, approachable, and entertaining movie. Jay's drive, passion, and humble personality likely influenced everyone to support him. These hero qualities make Jay a natural leader. If kids want to emulate a professional athlete, it should be Jay Demerit.

This movie will be enjoyed by sporting enthusiast, families, and anyone that needs some inspiration in their lives. Many people in the United States are suffering from our recent economic decline, whether it is from lack of work, under pay, or stress from being over worked. Oddly, this movie is about the United States. We are facing rough times and issues that seem impossible to resolve. We were knocked down in 2008, but we need to get ourselves back up and realize our potential with support from our friends, families, and neighbors; just like Jay Demerit did with his life. This movie is exactly what we need to re-energize our spirits and face the adversities of day to day life. I recommend watching this movie a few times and bringing friends or family that are having a rough time or are facing challenges in their lives. I hope teenagers watch this movie and learns from Jay's personal qualities and tenacity.

Rise and Shine, The Jay DeMerit story is an excellent documentary not only about Jay's soccer journey, but about hope, faith and dreams... A journey that starts in Green Bay, Wisconsin and continues to London and then to the World Cup. Playing soccer in England at the lowest level for no money, to get to score the most important goal of your career in the most important game, to be named the captain of your team, then to play top teams like Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham or Arsenal, tells how much Jay wanted to make it, to fulfill a dream. His dream! And what greater finish for any soccer player in this world, than to represent and play for his country at the highest level possible? Jay did it! The World Cup 2010 in South Africa This movie should inspire kids, teenagers and adults as well, to follow their dreams no matter the obstacles in life. To believe and to go on! Jay believed in his dream and followed his dream. Nick Lewis and Ranko Tutulugdzija believed in their dreams and directed this unbelievable story of life. Great job guys! Make sure you watch it, it's worth it! Believe in your dream when nobody else does, follow yours when the road is hard and ave faith! It's Jay's story!

Rise and Shine is a low budget documentary and it shows at times. However, don't let this detract you from the story. Its truly not only an inspiring story, but its one of the greatest underdog stories you'll ever hear. Jay's story is told with humor and humility. He's sure of himself, but not full of himself. He also has some funny stories about how sad his situation was along the way, but instead of feeling pity, you just laugh along with him.

The best part of the documentary is when the playoff match between Watford and Leeds is highlighted. This shows the potential the filmmakers have if they choose to pursue a career in this field. I won't go into the match details, but the way they dissect what happens is brilliant film making. It will truly stir you.

For all the great things this movie has, it is not perfect. I have a few issues with it. One is the corny country music they used when showing scenes of the town of Green Bay. The town is more middle America than rural America. Some of the interviews you can hear wind blowing through the mic. And the end credits look like a home made video. Minor complaints, really.

We have to give credit to the two guys who made this movie. Nick Lewis and Ranko Tutulugdzija put their hearts into this movie. They were also funded by 2000 soccer fans on a grass roots level.

Overall, it is worth renting/viewing if you can find it. Americans may have a hard time grasping the magnitude of Jay's journey, but what a journey it is. As a soccer fan, sports fan, and 'underdog' fan, you should enjoy the story. For soccer fans, its highly recommended.

Disclosure - I'm a soccer fan and helped fund the movie through the producer's grass roots fund raising efforts.

Rise and Shine The Jay DeMerit, at first glance, might seem like just another feel good sports movie. Good guy works hard and wins the big trophy in the end, but this movie is far from that version. This is the true life story of a young American soccer player with a big dream in his heart and a mountain of obstacles in his path.

Born and raised in the heart of football country and struggling to find a way into the the American professional leagues, Jay chose to do the unimaginable. He headed to Europe with hardly any money, but with pure determination to make his dream come true. From the lowest version of league play he worked, trained and believed his day would eventually come. Hearing about his journey and seeing where it leads is something even the youngest viewer will find inspiration in.

Anyone who has ever had to fight against the odds will be able to relate to this movie. You'll leave feeling like anything is possible and I promise you that you will walk out of the theater with a smile of your face and new strength in your heart!