65_RedRoses

65_RedRoses is an intimate and inspiring documentary that first premiered in 2009, starring Eva Markvoort, Kina Boyce, and Meggan Martin. The film encapsulates the inspiring and prismatically challenging journey of Eva Markvoort, a young woman battling a deadly condition, Cystic Fibrosis, who desperately struggles to undergo a miraculous double lung transplant - a journey that's both enthralling and moving. Directed by Philip Lyall and Nimisha Mukerji, this movie provides a raw depiction of the harsh realities of mortal sickness, the profound yearning for normalcy, and the redemptive power of love and friendship.

In the movie, Eva Markvoort gives a beautifully captured portrayal of herself, while Kina Boyce and Meggan Martin are interlaced as her intimate internet friends. The film’s title, 65_RedRoses, is a play on words as Eva is waiting for a lifesaving transplant and uses "65 Rose," as a pseudonym since kids may not be able to pronounce "Cystic Fibrosis."

The film opens with Eva leading a seemingly ordinary life, making art and dreaming up her future, despite her demanding treatment schedule. As a young vibrant woman, she yearns to live no different than others of her age. However, her lung functions are deteriorating rapidly, prompting her doctor to confirm she needs a double lung transplant. There's both an existential dread and a spark of hope anchored to this affirmation, a feeling expertly captured in the film.

65_RedRoses also taps into the digital age as Eva finds friendship online within the global community of people living with the same fatal genetic disease, Cystic Fibrosis. She becomes particularly close to Kina Boyce and Meggan Martin, who are both in different stages of the same fight. As they support each other through the tumultuous journey, their digital friendship becomes a vital lifeline. The film intensifies when Eva gets the call that lungs have become available for her, a beacon of hope in her grim reality.

This film is not only about the struggle of Eva but also the physical, emotional, and logistical challenges faced by her family, especially her devoted parents. The audience gets a pristine insight into the complexity and pain of seeing a loved one wage a life-threatening battle. Furthermore, the dynamics between her doctors, who have the difficult job of weighing who gets an organ transplant, brings forth ethical dilemmas intrinsic to medical science.

Beyond the storyline, the film’s execution is commendable. The directors, Philip Lyall and Nimisha Mukerji, use a sensitive and empathetic lens to capture Eva's journey from the initial admission of her terminal condition to the moments leading up to her transplant. Kina Boyce and Meggan Martin add layers to the tale, infusing it with deeply emotive facets.

The title 65_RedRoses is unique and gripping, and the documentary follows suit by eloquently revealing a heartbreaking perspective of struggle, strength, and the relentless desire to live. Eva’s story, featured beautifully by real-life portrayals, elicits reflection over the value of life, the impact of modern medicine, and above all, the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity. Although voiced through individual stories, the film is a universal illustration of human resiliency.

65_RedRoses will invariably touch anyone who watches it, regardless of whether they have had personal experiences with Cystic Fibrosis or terminal illness. It proffers a captivating mix of despair and hope, revealing the vulnerability of our bodies, coupled with the incredible strength of the human spirit. Charming, sometimes heart-wrenching, but ultimately inspiring, this feature documentary shows us the power of the human will to survive against all odds. Overall, 65_RedRoses is more than a movie; it’s a poignant tale of determination, resilience, and friendship that leaves the audience not only heartbroken but also inspired to value every moment they are given. It's an impactful portrayal of a journey of life that's as compelling as it's real.