This movie is very inspirational, educational and makes me realize how fortunate I am to have an education and not have to worry about the safety of my life or family.
He Named Me Malala, is a documentary about Malala Yousafzai who takes huge risks to stand up for girls' rights to receive an education in Pakistan. When Malala is 15 years old, she makes public speeches about how she doesn't think the Taliban is doing the right thing by blocking girls from getting an education. One morning on the way to school, members of the Taliban board Malala's school bus, ask for her by name, and try to assassinate her. Malala is shot on the left side of her head and she miraculously survives. After her recovery, she continues to put her own life in danger by speaking out against the Taliban. Fast forward to 2014, at age 17, Malala is the youngest person ever to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
The relationship between Malala and her father, Ziuddin Yousafzai is very strong and shown throughout the documentary. Malala said that she and her dad have two different bodies but they share one soul. They both speak out and help each other have a voice. Ziuddin named his daughter after a historical Afghanistan woman who courageously went onto the battlefield to fight for freedom. Similarities are shown between the two Malalas, both strong young women willing to take a stand.
My favorite scene is at the beginning of the movie when Malala is at her home with her brothers and Dad having conversations like a tight-knit family. This scene has some comedic relief between Malala and her brothers and this shows she has a normal life.
The message of He Named Me Malala is that we should stand up for what's right and what we believe in no matter the consequences. That can be really difficult to do. Malala really shows what she believes in and says that there is a moment when one should choose to stand or not. Whe chose to speak out. The movie states, "When you educate a girl, it changes our world." Thanks to Malala, more girls are getting educated and our world will be a better place because of it.
I rate this film 5 out of 5 stars because it is very inspirational and shows how one person can really make a difference in the world. I recommend this film for ages 13-18 because it is intense and has actual news videos of murders done by the Taliban.
Reviewed by Lainey A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic.
