MartinHafer Barbara Smith Conrad came to the attention of the media when she was in college at the University of Texas. She was chosen for the lead in a school opera but HUGE problems came about because she was black and the leading man was white. Nowadays, such a thing is no big deal but in segregated Texas of the late 1950s, it was a HUGE deal--with even national newspapers and the famous singer Harry Belafonte getting into the fray! However, this is only PART of the story. It seems that it was only the beginning for Conrad, as she jumped from this event to New York--and to a serious career in the music industry--becoming a famous opera diva. So, the film is NOT just about racism but about her life following this event. Interesting and well worth seeing.

Eryn Vogn Director Mat Hames and editor Sandra Guardado delicately captured the wonderful story of our heroine, her conflict, and triumphs in as graceful a manner as the subject herself. Barbara Smith Conrad's fluid and elegant nature innately captivates her audience right from the start.Live footage with a renowned superstar, mentor and supporter adds to the sweet pleasure of viewing this film. The beautiful, lush green Texas scenery and wholesome Center Point community creates a richly tasteful experience.When I Rise is a must see for music enthusiasts, arts and civil rights educators and students alike, with an unavoidable true to life message at its core.

alt0512 The life of Barbara Smith Conrad is one of courage, hope and love. This film tells her story through the struggle, disappointments, perseverance, and ultimate success of a girl whose love of music and hope for an education brought her to the University of Texas during the Civil Rights movement and placed her at the center of racial controversy in Texas.I saw this premiere at SXSW and a week later am still thinking about the importance of this story. Important because it documents an era in our history that should never be forgotten and important because it reminds us what can be achieved even against great odds.Mat Hames directed a beautiful film that draws you in not just with the story itself, but with the music, photography, interviews, original photos and film footage. I laughed, I cried, I felt shame for a time in our history, and I felt joy for the life of Barbara Smith Conrad. I loved this film - a perfect 10!!!

fraktol I am biased because I am a student of opera.I also buy into films easily, and become emotional when my heartstrings are tugged.That said, I still feel this film is beautiful. From the opening strains of an off-key, country piano, to the hopeful face of a young performer who sings as the closing credits roll, this movie out-lined the struggles and successes of African American Opera Diva, Barbara Smith Conrad, with sensitivity and humor carefully balanced throughout the entire journey.Part history lesson, part biography, part inspiration, the film is full of poignant moments as Barbara struggles to reconcile her difficult path to success.The viewer is left at the end with a sense of hope and a faith in dreams and, perhaps, a new hero in the form of an elegant woman from rural Texas who took on the world.I highly recommend!