Roland E. Zwick In the war-ravaged region of northern Uganda, a group of Acholi children - many of them orphans - living in a government-run refugee camp, use music and dance as a means to keep hope alive. Indeed, the youngsters are so good at what they do that their school was chosen as a finalist in the 2005 Kampala Music Festival, an event held annually in the nation's capital. Of course, before they can participate in that event, the kids and their instructors will have to safely navigate their way through the rebel-infested region that lies between their camp and their intended destination.The Oscar-nominated documentary "War Dance," directed by Sean and Andrea Nix Fine, tells the story of these children.In the camp, music has become a form of therapy for these traumatized youngsters, a means to help them come to terms with - or at least temporarily forget - the unspeakable atrocities they've experienced in their short lives, atrocities they recount for us in graphic and harrowing detail. In its "lighter" moments, the movie focuses on the children as they rehearse for the upcoming competition. Then it's on to the festival itself, where the children of Patongo sing, dance and perform their little hearts out, filled with suspense at the outcome, anticipation of taking home a prize, and pride in a job well done. And the sheer, unadulterated joy is palpable.As a study in contrasts, the movie presents us with both the best and the worst that humanity has to offer - the heartbreaking along with the heartwarming. And indeed, you would need to have a heart of stone not to be deeply touched by this film.

Mike B This is a documentary that makes one realize fully the power of film. This is a very intense film on the rehabilitation of young children whose lives have been shattered by war – in this case a war in northern Uganda. This rehabilitation is done by involvement in music and dance. There is a universality to these art forms that hopefully will bring joy and strength back to their lives.I also loved the way this film portrayed African people – there are relatively few films that give a full portrait of the people of Africa. There are many films depicting events in Africa. This one gives a full view of both people and events – it does not portray people in the abstract. Some of the events narrated in this documentary are not for the faint of heart. I would not recommend this film for young children.It also makes one realize how we in the affluent west are so overloaded with our gadgets and toys. How much does one need for happiness? There is both great joy and sadness in this documentary, so be prepared.

aktase Just shocking!! I have not attempted to write any comments on this web site (just lack of time maybe) but after seeing this movie, I felt that had to write about it. It is so touching and natural that I could not help crying while I was watching this film. I felt guilty on my part to share this wild and cruel world, creating so called wars , killing humans and leaving millions of orphans behind... And even the most merciless tran of the war lords can not overcome with love of music and dance. Movie gives a clear idea of how miserable lives are lived at the heart of black Afica. Everybody must see this movie to get insight about war and humanity..

leiser18 War/Dance is one of the best documentaries I have ever seen. It made me feel happy and sad at the same time. These children are amazing. Their plight reminds me of the children in the Holocaust. It also made me realize that we are lucky to live in the 21st century and that we are truly a "global" community. What does the average person know about life in Uganda today? Watching these children tell their heart-wrenching stories made me want to go to there and visit their village. I think because of the contest these children have hopes and dreams again. They rose above the horrors of war and achieved, in a sense, nobility, not just for themselves but for their whole tribe. Directors/writers Sean Fine and Andrea Nix ought to receive an academy award for their excellent work! Do not miss this film! Its images will stay with you for a long time.