A Man Named Pearl / The Documentary
Well this film doesn’t star a woman over 40 ( it stars a 66 year-old African American male) but there are a lot of marvelous and interesting women over 40 in this magical, enlightening and inspirational new documentary. And since we’ve been talking about “therapy shopping” lately this film is a definite alternative to shopping for lifting your spirits.
A MAN NAMED PEARL moved me in such a way that I want to share this film with everyone. I can’t say it any better than this review by Bill Thompson of the Charleston Post.“In a sea of pedantic, heavy-handed political documentaries, A MAN NAMED PEARL offers both an effective social statement on race relations and human potential”
It tells the inspiring story of self-taught topiary artist Pearl Fryar. It is a subtle and intriquing film that is certain to open hearts and minds. It offers an upbeat message that speaks to respect for both self and others, and shows what one person can achieve when he allows himself to share the full expression of his humanity. Pearl’s garden is a living vision of peace, love and goodwill and this documentary reflects the true essence of this man and the amazing life lessons that can be learned or reaffirmed from the truly remarkable and astoundingly gifted Pear Fryar.
“Gardening books will tell you that some of these things in my garden can’t be done, but I had never read them when I got started. Not knowing ahead of time that something is supposed to be impossible often makes it possible to achieve. I didn’t have any limitations because I really didn’t know anything about horticulture. I just figured I could do whatever I wanted with any plant I had.”
“In this life you’re gonna have obstacles. The thing about it is, don’t let those obstacles determine where you go.”
Those are just two examples of Pearl’s philosophy to live by. So instead of that shopping spree or that chocolate eating fest check your local newspaper this weekend to see if A MAN NAMED PEARL is still in a theatre near you and if not the DVD is expected to be out in December 2008. A MAN NAMED PEARL should definitely be in your DVD library or next to your pocketbook and the chocolate stash.
Debbie Zipp, blogger for In the Trenches Productions, The First Entertainment Website Celebrating the Power and Beauty of Women Over 40
