Plot: What’s it about?
As a brutal civil war unfolds in their native land, three young men from the Sudan seek to find a better life for themselves and their people. The journey will not be a simple one, the path is lined with danger of all kinds. As if the dangers of the war weren’t enough, it will take incredible spirit and dedication, the trip will push the men to their limits and beyond. As Nicole Kidman narrates, we watch as these three young men, known as the Lost Boys of the Sudan, make the harsh journey through Africa toward the United States. God Grew Tired of Us follows the Lost Boys for several years, through the journey to America and how they learn to adapt to their new lives. Even now in America, the young men face challenges and as they try to fit into their new lives, will they be able to help others find this new hope, as they did?
I guess I am just not easily inspired, but most documentaries that promise to inspire audiences leave me cold. I can appreciate how some have to overcome incredible odds in their lives, but not all of those stories make good documentaries. The Lost Boys of the Sudan is a wonderful story, an example of how strong the human spirit can be and how that even when hope is distant, some can push on and find what they need. I can appreciate that, but as I watched God Grew Tired of Us, I couldn’t help but think this wasn’t a great documentary. Now if I had seen a half hour show about the Lost Boys, it would have worked, but I just don’t think it works in this feature length format. I do not want to downplay the story, it is worth learning about, but I didn’t care for this documentary. If you want to learn about the Lost Boys, I recommend a rental, as this isn’t one you’ll watch often.
Video: How does it look?
God Grew Tired of Us is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen. This is a documentary, so the visuals aren’t always slick and polished. Even so, this transfer does a capable job with presenting the material. The image is clean and never looks soft, as detail is quite sharp throughout. Of course, the new footage looks a lot better than the archival, but that is a given. All in all, this movie looks great here, terrific work from Sony.
Audio: How does it sound?
The Dolby Digital 5.1 option is solid, but this material is pretty basic in design. Nicole Kidman’s narration is loud and clear, while other dialogue comes across well also. A few scenes have a little more kick, but by and large, this is a natural, more reserved presentation. Not much else I can say, it is what it is and it sounds good here. This disc also includes subtitles in English and Spanish.
Supplements: What are the extras?
An audio commentary starts us off, as director Christopher Quinn is joined by the three Lost Boys from the film. As expected, there is a lot of insight from the young men, who share memories of the experience beyond what is shown in the movie. Quinn isn’t as informative, but he does have some worthwhile comments here and there. This disc also includes a fifteen minute featurette, as well as the film’s theatrical trailer.
