For those who enjoyed 'Sin Nombre,' a fictional feature film centered on the plight of child migrants in Latin America, 'Which Way Home' offers a gripping and heartfelt true-life documentary with similar subject matter. Director Rebecca Cammisa follows the journey of child migrants, providing a poignant and eye-opening glimpse into their struggles and the dangers they face while attempting to reach the United States.
The film's star is Kevin, a genial 14-year-old from Honduras, who teams up with Fito, another youngster from his hometown, with the shared goal of finding employment in the US to support their impoverished families. The documentary follows them as they travel through Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico on top of freight trains. Along the way, they are joined by other children like Yurico, a 17-year-old struggling with a drug addiction, and Juan Carlos, who seeks to reunite with his younger brother in Los Angeles.
The resilience and likability of Kevin become evident throughout the film, prompting a desire in some audience members to help him. Despite being deported back to Honduras after reaching Houston, Texas, Kevin remarkably embarks on a second journey to the US. The film provides insights into the conflicts he faces at home, particularly with his stepfather, which drive him to seek a better life elsewhere.
The documentary sheds light on the various social service groups dedicated to helping child migrants throughout Mexico and Central America. 'House of Migrants,' a shelter near the train tracks in Mexico, offers respite to the children during their arduous journey. The film showcases the dedication of individuals and organizations working to support and repatriate the migrant children with their families.
'Which Way Home' powerfully captures the dangers these children encounter during their trip, including the tragic loss of life due to accidents and exposure. Heartrending interviews with the parents of children who didn't survive their attempts highlight the devastating toll of this perilous journey.
The film also introduces us to nine-year-olds Olga and Freddie, who undertake the dangerous trip alone, leaving their fate unknown as the filmmakers lose track of them.
'Which Way Home' may not break new ground in terms of style, but its compelling subject matter and touching portrayal of these child migrants immerse viewers in a world they may never have imagined. The documentary serves as a moving and significant testament to the challenges faced by these young migrants and the need for awareness and compassion for their plight.
The film's star is Kevin, a genial 14-year-old from Honduras, who teams up with Fito, another youngster from his hometown, with the shared goal of finding employment in the US to support their impoverished families. The documentary follows them as they travel through Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico on top of freight trains. Along the way, they are joined by other children like Yurico, a 17-year-old struggling with a drug addiction, and Juan Carlos, who seeks to reunite with his younger brother in Los Angeles.
The resilience and likability of Kevin become evident throughout the film, prompting a desire in some audience members to help him. Despite being deported back to Honduras after reaching Houston, Texas, Kevin remarkably embarks on a second journey to the US. The film provides insights into the conflicts he faces at home, particularly with his stepfather, which drive him to seek a better life elsewhere.
The documentary sheds light on the various social service groups dedicated to helping child migrants throughout Mexico and Central America. 'House of Migrants,' a shelter near the train tracks in Mexico, offers respite to the children during their arduous journey. The film showcases the dedication of individuals and organizations working to support and repatriate the migrant children with their families.
'Which Way Home' powerfully captures the dangers these children encounter during their trip, including the tragic loss of life due to accidents and exposure. Heartrending interviews with the parents of children who didn't survive their attempts highlight the devastating toll of this perilous journey.
The film also introduces us to nine-year-olds Olga and Freddie, who undertake the dangerous trip alone, leaving their fate unknown as the filmmakers lose track of them.
'Which Way Home' may not break new ground in terms of style, but its compelling subject matter and touching portrayal of these child migrants immerse viewers in a world they may never have imagined. The documentary serves as a moving and significant testament to the challenges faced by these young migrants and the need for awareness and compassion for their plight.