HE NAMED ME MALALA

A look at the events leading up to the Taliban's attack on Pakistani schoolgirl, Malala Yousafzai, for speaking out on girls' education followed by the aftermath, including her speech to the United Nations. — IMDB

This is a beautiful, gentle documentary about a young, courageous girl standing up for the right of all girls to have an education. Interspersed with animated sequences and some real footage, we hear Malala share her dreadful experience being shot and left for dead by the Taliban and the simple, but very public life, she leads as a spokesperson for young women. It’s an inspirational movie directed with sensitivity and the warmness that exudes from Malala herself. The title of the film refers to her father naming her. Her father shares the spotlight with Malala and we come to understand his background and how he was also outspoken about the oppressive rule of the Taliban in Afghanistan when they came to power. HE NAMED ME MALALA is not a documentary of great depth — but reflects the innocence of this 17 year old who often demonstrates a wisdom beyond her years with humility and dignity. This private, intimate portrait of an amazing young girl is definitely worth a look and is truly an educational experience.