Friday, January 9, 2009

Homeless to Harvard


Homeless to Harvard

Homeless to Harvard is a true story about a girl named Liz Murray, who overcame many obstacles and changed her life. While growing up, Liz had a very dark sad view of the world. Her mother was an alcoholic, a drug-addict, a schizophrenic, and legally blind. Her dad, although he was brilliant, was also addicted to drugs. She hated school and she felt that as long as she stayed home, everything would be alright. Eventually, the world came in. Liz’s mother was diagnosed with Aids and left them, and Liz was sent to a group home. When she was fifteen Liz moved in with her mother and grandfather, she started going to school, and made friends (Chris in particular, her best friend.) But when life takes a turn for the worse, Liz and Chris move out and live on the streets. Life changes again when Liz’s mother dies. Chris leaves to live in a group home leaving Liz alone forced to make a decision about how she wants to live her life. By a miracle, Liz gets accepted to a special school where a she works her hardest and wins a trip to Harvard. Inspired and confident, Liz works even harder and does the impossible by wining a scholarship that makes it possible for her to go to Harvard and continue her education.

Where is she Now?

Liz started Harvard in the fall of 2000, but after a hard semester she took a year off from college. She returned for a while but she never quite adjusted to the new culture and left again. Murray said that her past made college life a great deal harder for her, but she didn’t go back to the way she lived before. Not too soon after, Liz made a deal to write a book and film Homeless to Harvard, along with taking care of her father who was also diagnosed with Aids. Murray doesn’t quite know what’s in her future, maybe she’ll give college another shot and pursue a career in documentary filmmaking. But what ever she decides to do, undoubtedly she’ll succeed!

My Opinion.

Homeless to Harvard is one of the most stirring movies I’ve seen I a long time. Watching the beginning, you can’t help but feel for Liz and her sad situation. But as the film progresses you relies that you are rooting her on, you are wanting so badly for her to succeed, and of course she doesn’t disappoint. Director Peter Levin and actress Thora Birch (Liz) do an astounding job walking you through this amazing woman’s life. I would recommend this film to any one. You are sure to walk away inspired.