Audience reaction to I AM ELEVEN in the USA. Have you seen the film? We’d love to hear what you thought – please leave your comments below!

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81 Comments to Comments

  1. by Amelia

    On May 17, 2012 at 1:31 pm

    I saw “I am Eleven” tonight at the screening in Melbourne and it was incredible. Such a wonderful film that the whole of the world should see. Thank you so so much to everyone involved.

  2. by Shelly

    On April 29, 2012 at 6:19 am

    To Genevieve and Henrik and ALL of these amazing 11 year olds in the film, you really opened my eyes. Even though these indiviudal children around the world are living such completely different lives in opposite environments they all have a common thread of humility, depth and pride. They may have thousands of miles between them physically but these eleven year olds had a LOT in common… INCREDIBLE insight and wisdom for their age. Something I realized as I left the theatre was that at no time during the film did any of these children ever complain about their housing situation or what they didn’t have or verbally express any unhappiness (except maybe for Billy who wanted a time machine :-) They were all grounded, grateful kids who cared very deeply for their loved ones, did their part for their family and community and were trying to make sense of humanity along the way.

    Bravo to a life changing film. I look forward to having my children watch it as soon as it becomes available on DVD.

  3. by Tammy

    On April 28, 2012 at 8:25 pm

    Really enjoyed your film. Would like to know when it is available for purchase. Thank you.

  4. by sandy

    On April 3, 2012 at 6:29 pm

    Loved you all! And wishing you nothing but peace, love and goodness. You deserve it.

    Sandy
    Lakewood, OH
    USA

  5. by toni oliverio

    On April 3, 2012 at 12:22 am

    Hi! I’m the shorts programmer who introduced myself to you at the Cleveland International Film Festival. Again, I want to congratulate you for I AM ELEVEN — it was one of my favorite full length docs in the Festival! Please keep me in mind when you have other projects — especially shorts, but all projects as well!

    Wishing you the best!

    toni oliverio

  6. by Julie Goulis

    On April 2, 2012 at 3:40 pm

    This documentary was a fantastic experience! I saw it 2 nights ago and am still feeling its power. Loved, loved, loved it and all the children who were a part of it.

  7. by Monica

    On April 2, 2012 at 3:59 am

    Bravo! A wonderful treat for us here at the Cleveland International film festival. I was touched by your film and couldn’t help but love the kids. Your concept is delightful and we wish you all the best. 11 rocks!

  8. by Kim Wiebusch

    On April 2, 2012 at 12:55 am

    Loved the movie as did my 11 year old son Jack ; watched at the Cleveland International Film Expo. We talked about the kids after and how the ones who lived the simplest lives seemed the happiest; lessons for us in Western cultures. Thanks for making such a great picture!

  9. by Sydnee

    On April 1, 2012 at 3:49 pm

    I had a great time watching “I Am Eleven” It was sooooooooooo awesome. it maked me question on how i live and how much America has compared to other countries. I loved the children. The kids from India, their hearts were just sweet, and down to earth…. I love Billy! He is sooo cute! I loved Remi too! I loved all the kids! They’re so sweet and tender-hearted. I feel privileged
    that i got to see “I am Eleven”. Thank you!

  10. by Melissa

    On April 1, 2012 at 3:25 am

    My son, Connor, and I saw the movie at the International Film Festival in Cleveland this Saturday, March 31st. We really enjoyed the different points of view from all over the world. We were both very fond of all of the children…Billy- he made us laugh, Remi- had a valuable opinion and was very mature, Siham had a lovely smile all of the time and Jack was a down to earth nice kid with a great personality. We walked away feeling good about the world in which we live, and feeling very fortunate for the blessings we have in our lives. Thank you for the opportunity to get to know these wonderful 11 year olds!

  11. by Sarah Bene

    On April 1, 2012 at 2:50 am

    Hi Remi, I just recently saw the movie I am eleven and I loved it! Im from Central America, and I never really get to see the world. I really enjoyed your part in that movie and you are very insightful. I like your way of thinking and feel the same way a lot of the time. Thats why I liked this movie so much because I can relate to your thoughts and adults can’t always understand them. Its nice to see other kid’s (my age) Perspectives. Thanks for sharing your opinions and thoughts.

  12. by holly

    On March 30, 2012 at 8:33 pm

    I saw a screening of I Am Eleven in Cleveland this morning. I LOVED the film! It brought back memories of what it was like for me to be 11 and also how different 11 year olds can be. The kids were all great. Billy and Kimberly made me laugh out loud. I think everyone really enjoyed the elephant footage too!

    Thanks to all the children for for sharing your stories and Ms. Bailey for creating such a fantastic documentary.

  13. by Sarah

    On March 30, 2012 at 8:14 pm

    That was a great movie. Everyone did a great job.

  14. by Leigh

    On March 29, 2012 at 9:50 am

    Thank you to all the children in I am eleven for sharing your life.
    We loved you all!
    http://artsrocket.blogspot.com.au/2012/03/i-am-eleven.html

    From
    Leigh, Oscar, Mischa and Salvador
    Sydney, Australia

  15. by Esteban

    On March 6, 2012 at 2:23 pm

    Hi! We are hosting a CISV Village (all kids are 11years old) here in Guatemala during summer, how can we watch the movie? It would be really nice. Thanks alot.

  16. by Janet Reynolds

    On February 25, 2012 at 12:25 pm

    How can we see this film!??? We are near Philadelphia, PA USA

    Janet Reynolds
    Brandywine Valley CISV
    Chapter President

    “CISV educates and inspires action for a more just and peaceful world.”

  17. by jessica

    On February 24, 2012 at 10:30 pm

    you can be any thing you want to be

  18. by Anna Baker

    On February 16, 2012 at 12:45 pm

    I saw “I am eleven” at Ceres last Friday and thought it was amazing. You’ve really captured something very beautiful, a precious time in life when our hearts and minds know so much and are free to express it. It’s a shame that we don’t stay that way. As a teacher (who sometimes finds that age group a bit challenging) it was great to be reminded how lovely, thoughtful and inspired 11 year olds can be. Before the film I mentioned that I teach at Carlton primary School (the school Jamira attended during her interview). It would be great if the current grade 5 and 6 students could see this film. If you do decide to screen the film at schools, we would be very interested. Keep us posted and good luck spreading these wonderful stories all over the world.

  19. by Monique

    On February 14, 2012 at 11:19 am

    Was so glad to catch this film last Friday as I’ve been eagerly anticipating its screening! Was so moved and totally blown away by the insight these children had. Thank you for making such a powerful piece of art and I look forward to seeing it touch many more audiences in the future.
    Congratulations Gen and good luck!
    Monique

  20. by Clare

    On February 10, 2012 at 1:07 pm

    Just took my son who is turning 11 in a few days and his friend just turned 11 too. we all really enjoyed the film and it definitely left me with a feel good feeling. the film is very personable & I felt a number of deep emotions watching it. It was really great to hear what Genevieves drive was for the film & ironic for me because at age 11 I have some of my worst memories and it was a traumatic time which affected me for many years later, Anyway I really want to say thank you to all involved for this gift

  21. by Malcolm

    On February 10, 2012 at 12:55 pm

    Hey Jamira,

    Thanks a million for coming along to the screening of your film tonight. It was extra special watching you on the big screen knowing you were with us in the audience.

    Thanks again,
    Malcolm, Leah, Jodie, Ella, Ann and Meg
    (your fans)

  22. by Goulay-Benita

    On January 17, 2012 at 8:13 pm

    I like the idea of focus on this age, the in between two worlds, the one of the adults and the one of the children. Very precious as all the dreams are still possible. It remind me the mark Twain quote “They did not know it was impossible, so they did it”!
    I hope this documentary will be available on French TV and who knows, we may see our daughter Eleonore who is in Torquay, Australia and who you may interview in the next days!!!
    Congratulation!
    Anne-Cécile

  23. by claude

    On September 9, 2011 at 12:50 am

    I’ve seen a preview screener. It’s an extraordinary doco. Congratulations. Everyone should see this.

  24. by Louise

    On August 22, 2011 at 4:01 am

    I loved hearing from the 11-year-olds in this film. each with so much wisdom and passion for the adventure ahead of them. Thanks for putting this documentary together. It was wonderful to watch.

  25. by Rebecca

    On August 19, 2011 at 9:45 am

    Hello, and thanks for making such a wonderful film. What exceptional children, i am always humbled by the wisdom of children, and saddened that we as adults don’t listen to them as much as we should. What a fabulous point you made Genevieve highlighting that “children don’t forget” and it is our responsibility as adults to make sure that children remember with love not sadness.

  26. by Jacqui

    On August 18, 2011 at 11:50 pm

    I cried, I laughed, I walked away having a whole new respect for 11 year olds! What gorgeous people! They all taught me something and have inspired me to make yoga classes available for kids at my yoga studio.x

  27. by gen

    On August 16, 2011 at 11:49 am

    Thanks Jacinta! We enjoyed seeing the cinema packed out too. Thanks for being part of it! We are so happy to hear you felt a warm glow and extra enthusiasm for life. Please spread this feeling !

  28. by gen

    On August 16, 2011 at 11:48 am

    Thanks Jarrod. The wonderful Nick Huggins created the original soundtrack for I AM ELEVEN. When the soundtrack is available we will post info on here. Please subscribe via the newsletter box (right of screen). In the meantime here are some links to Nick’s music and his label Two Bright Lakes. They have a great range of awesome artists on there! Check them out – http://twobrightlakes.com/nickhuggins2.html

  29. by gen

    On August 16, 2011 at 11:46 am

    They do rock don’t they! Thanks for your message Sarah!

  30. by gen

    On August 16, 2011 at 11:46 am

    Great to hear Jess!

  31. by gen

    On August 16, 2011 at 11:45 am

    Hi there Kelly, thanks for your feedback! We are happy to hear you enjoyed I AM ELEVEN! When the DVD is released we will post info on here. You can also subscribe to our e-news by putting your email address in the white subscriber box to the right of screen. You can follow us on Twitter and Facebook too. Thanks!

  32. by gen

    On August 16, 2011 at 11:44 am

    Thanks Melanie! I am glad you enjoyed I AM ELEVEN and my work in the past. It was really fun to see so many 11-year-olds in the audience I was thrilled to get them up on stage! Thanks for your feedback!!

  33. by gen

    On August 16, 2011 at 11:42 am

    Billy is really happy everyone has enjoyed meeting him through the documentary!

  34. by mary keily

    On August 15, 2011 at 11:24 am

    Billy, I am your greatest fan. I think Genevieve should do a WHOLE movie about you.
    Mary

  35. by Melanie

    On August 13, 2011 at 5:01 am

    HI Genevieve
    I just wanted to congratulate you on the success of your documentary i am eleven. I thoroughly enjoyed the open, honest and refreshing nature of your film.
    I have been looking out for your endeavours ever since I saw your short film about a girl that lost her father years ago. It was so beautiful and heartwarming.
    Thanks again for the joyous viewing at MIFF this month – well done on the sell out sessions! It was great to meet some of the children and see how you validated all 11 year olds in the audience by asking them to come out to the front! What a lovely gesture.
    Good luck
    Mel

  36. by Kelly

    On August 8, 2011 at 11:57 am

    Hi Genevieve, I loved every minute of your film yesterday morning, such a brilliant concept, so inspiring, and the kids were so honest, innocent and wise. Is ‘I am Eleven’ available for purchase? I’d love to select it for discussion in my film club this month!

  37. by Sarah

    On August 7, 2011 at 11:46 am

    So glad I caught the screening this morning at MIFF, Gen your enthusiasm and passion for the kids was inspirational, and it shows through in this wonderful film. Congratulations to all of the kids too – eleven year olds rock! (and especially you Billy :-)

  38. by jesssw

    On August 7, 2011 at 7:08 am

    Such a wonderful, inspiring and amazing film. The children were all so beautiful. Next time I travel I will be looking through different eyes at the amazing world we live in. Thank you, Genevieve and especially to each citizen of the world in this film.

  39. by Tony

    On August 7, 2011 at 6:23 am

    Great film Gen! Billy you’re a star… don’t ever let people bring you down. Great to hear that you’re still with Ellen.

  40. by Darren

    On August 7, 2011 at 4:53 am

    Hey Genevieve, was very moved and inspired by the doco at MIFF this morning. A great way to end the week and the film festival for me. You and the children featured should feel very proud. I hope this project continues to gain momentum for you and spreads it’s wings. Take care and see you at DOCO 3000.

  41. by Jarrod

    On August 7, 2011 at 4:50 am

    Saw the film today and thought it was amazing. I especially liked the music that matched the mood of the film perfectly – where can we get the songs that we’re used in the film?

    Thanks.

  42. by Jacinta Covington

    On August 7, 2011 at 4:41 am

    I usually like to stay in bed late on a Sunday morning. But my partner talked me into going to the extra screening of your film at the Melbourne International Film Festival this morning. I’m so glad he did. Your beautiful film and those kind, observant, intelligent children gave me a warm glow and extra enthusiasm for life.

    It was fantastic to see the cinema packed out.

    Congratulations to the filmmakers, Genevieve’s mum and uncle, to all the young people who participated in the film, and to their families and carers. You have shared something truly wonderful with the world.

  43. by MIFF Fan

    On August 7, 2011 at 2:57 am

    Billy you rock!

  44. by Julie

    On August 3, 2011 at 2:21 am

    I want to be friends with all the kids, I loved the movie.

  45. by Matthew

    On August 1, 2011 at 1:43 pm

    As my daughter is 11 almost 12 and my son is 10 almost 11, when I saw this at the end of the Jim Middleton progam on the ABC tonight I just had to see more. As a parent with these two wonderful children, life is so ready to live and the innocence is refreshing. It makes me want to be eleven again when my world was so uncomplicated and dreams were adventurous……..Congratulations and well done!

  46. by Danielle

    On July 25, 2011 at 11:44 am

    What a wonderful film exploring the world and interviewing the best children ever. It was so easy to watch and I think in fact re-enforced the reasons why my mother and I became teachers. Also, your love of travel and children also came across very fondly. Well done! The music was also fantastic!

  47. by Kay Hart

    On July 25, 2011 at 7:45 am

    I was thrilled to be in the audience for the premiere of your film on Saturday at ACMI during the Melbourne International Film Festival. I loved it. Congratulations on your determination and initiative.

  48. by Mike

    On July 25, 2011 at 5:05 am

    I was lucky to be there for the premiere on Saturday. What a great film! I loved it! It made me cry, laugh, recollect my own experiences and ponder many of the world’s big questions. I agree wholeheartedly with Elise’s comment above; if only the world were run by eleven year-olds.

  49. by Elise

    On July 24, 2011 at 1:41 pm

    Magical! If only the world was run by eleven year olds.

  50. by Sam Harding

    On July 24, 2011 at 7:04 am

    Thank you for sharing such a beautiful, honest, emotive portrait of being eleven. The children taught me that there are some experiences in life that are intrinsic to just being eleven. It helped me recapture my world at that point in life and that, at 9, my daughter still has a few precious years left to see the world as she does now.
    A wonderful text for students to experience, both moving into this time in their lives and throughout their teens.
    Thanks Gen.

  51. by Jenny Mitchell

    On July 24, 2011 at 6:55 am

    I saw the film last night at MIFF and loved it. I’m an “older” woman, but feel thrilled that the children of the world are so smart, thoughtful, compassionate and witty and can tell us oldies a thing or two. Maybe there’s hope for the earth! Congratulations on the film and all those wonderful stars.

  52. by Elissa

    On July 24, 2011 at 6:13 am

    Congratulations to Genevieve and everyone involved. I was lucky enough to be in the audience for the Melbourne/ World premiere at ACMI yesterday as part of the MIFF.

    It is familiar to me to hear the voices of children and the wisdom and openness they have when they trust in someone enough to share their stories, feelings and dreams. It was so beautiful to see this on the big screen, raw, crossing boundaries. I really enjoyed the composition – music and images together brought tears to my eyes countless times throughout the film.

    I wish the film lucky as it is released across the globe!

  53. by gen

    On July 18, 2011 at 6:43 am

    Hi there! Yes tickets are sold out! That was quick! Please subscribe to the site, and FB and Twitter if you are on there, and we can keep you posted! : )

  54. by gen

    On July 18, 2011 at 6:39 am

    Hi Katie, subscribe to the site via the white box to the right and we will keep you posted! Thanks!

  55. by gen

    On July 18, 2011 at 6:39 am

    Thanks Paula! Looking forward to sharing it with audiences very soon!

  56. by gen

    On July 18, 2011 at 6:38 am

    Thanks so much! We are glad to hear from you and glad to hear you have a great 11 and nearly 11 year old in your life right now!

  57. by Nel

    On July 17, 2011 at 11:47 pm

    This film’s so popular that its already sold out @ MIFF 2011… what to can an aspiring audience member do?

  58. by Jane Duckworth

    On July 14, 2011 at 7:21 am

    I am intending to take my 11yo, nearly 12yo, daughter to see this documentary. I think it may give her more insight into children living in less developed countries where they don’t have the same opportunities as she does. A bit of empathy and compassion can go a long way. Many Australian children seem to have a strong ’sense of entitlement’, to use a cliche. ‘I should get an iphone or itouch for my 12th birthday. Most of my friends have one’. Really?

  59. by Katie

    On July 14, 2011 at 5:24 am

    AMAZING – Does anyone know where I might be able to buy this after its release?

  60. by Paula

    On July 14, 2011 at 1:32 am

    Looks wonderful, i can’t wait to see it. Beautifully filmed, shows a lot of respect to your young interviewees!
    All the best with your premiere x

  61. by Nic Graham

    On July 13, 2011 at 10:26 pm

    I have a wonderful son aged 11 and a beautiful daughter aged 10- completely different. i cant wait to take them to see this wonderful film…….something about being a parent, seeing children like this on screen and i get a bit misty eyed whilst grinning froim ear to ear..well done- a most beautiful achievement.

  62. by jayda

    On July 9, 2011 at 8:12 pm

    WOW! Very inspiring and just a wonderful job…Eleven year olds rock!!!

  63. by Nancy Sposato

    On July 8, 2011 at 10:31 am

    Looks incredible Gen. What a journey you must have had. Congratulations! What beauty and honesty in the eyes of those little ones. With love Nancy

  64. by Robyn

    On July 6, 2011 at 2:25 am

    What a beautiful concept! I’m really looking forward to watching this documentary.

  65. by Eko

    On February 15, 2011 at 5:28 pm

    Please send me any information on what date this film will be release.
    I’m very exciting abut this project, because I’m working with youth or teenagers as participant.

    Thank you…

  66. by riccardo sai

    On September 19, 2010 at 7:53 pm

    so sweet
    cant wait to see the film
    riccardo

  67. by Grace

    On September 18, 2010 at 11:57 am

    Jamira has the same birthday as me! [I think]
    She’s so cool! Way cooler than I was when I was eleven. XD

  68. by gen

    On July 19, 2010 at 8:40 am

    Thanks Jess! Great to hear you have been inspired. Visit us again soon, lots of new videos and news going up regularly. And have a look at the videos and profiles on the Meet The Children pages if you haven’t already.

  69. by Jess

    On July 16, 2010 at 6:22 am

    Hey, i was at a bayside doco showing today where you got interviewed about “i am eleven”
    just wanted to say that even the teaser was amazing to watch, i was already interested in cultures but you just inspired me even more. Thankyou

  70. by gen

    On April 23, 2010 at 2:22 am

    Hello ! Check out the new children’s profile pages!

  71. by gen

    On March 12, 2010 at 6:22 am

    Hi Carlie! Wow I don’t think I have seen you since I was 11! Thanks for getting in contact. I am glad you like the project and that you are lucky enough to have your own 11-year-old. Say hi to her from me! They are awesome hey! Keep an eye on the site for new updates soon.

  72. by carlie burt

    On February 24, 2010 at 10:53 pm

    Hi Genevieve, i went to primary school with you, a year above you i think… i now have an 11 year old and i just love the way she thinks. I think what you have done here is just amazing… i cant wait to see the final production…. Good work! :)

  73. by Kerri

    On January 18, 2010 at 5:13 am

    What a great idea for a project! Its so interesting to hear the mature yet often overlooked voices of these children. Look forward to seeing more!

  74. by Matt

    On December 1, 2009 at 8:41 am

    It’s powerful to see images of children talking about war in a way that seems more mature than most adults.

  75. by Emma

    On November 18, 2009 at 2:18 pm

    These kids are amazing! Excited to see the end result!

  76. by Aline

    On November 16, 2009 at 7:42 pm

    Congratulations, a wonderful site, inspire me!

    Aline
    (Brazil)

  77. by Reb

    On November 10, 2009 at 5:12 am

    Looks great, looking forward to seeing the rest of the content :)

  78. by Josia

    On November 8, 2009 at 9:44 am

    Just when I thought this site couldn’t get any better, you went and revamped it. The Children’s profiles are a PERFECT addition to this site!

  79. by Kat Black

    On November 3, 2009 at 3:14 pm

    Wonderful work Gen, can’t wait to see the whole doco!

  80. by Josh

    On November 3, 2009 at 12:36 am

    Looks fantastic!

  81. by Dom

    On November 2, 2009 at 3:17 pm

    Wow! Very excited for this doco!