Stay Human

Stay Human is a 2018 documentary film that adopts a profoundly intimate and humane approach to enlighten and inform the audience about an uncertain and tumultuous journey embarked on by undeterred individuals who have tasted despair, experienced loss, but hung on to hope and love unfeasibly amidst testing times.

The documentary is lovingly directed by Michael Franti, who is known for his dual profession as a filmmaker and musician. This heartfelt piece functions as both a stirring tribute to humanity's resilience and an exploration of the transformative power of music. It is a moving narrative that tells honest and raw stories of hope amidst trial and tribulation.

This powerful film involves a series of compelling and touching real-life stories and testimonies. One of the most poignant among these is of Steve Dezember who has been diagnosed with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord leading to loss of muscle control. Despite the odds, Steve, together with his devout wife Hope Dezember, exemplify true courage and grace as they choose positivity in the face of adversity. They not only embrace the hardship but also take it in stride, maintaining their strength, resolve, humor, and, importantly, their love for each other.

The couple, in their quest to 'Stay Human', navigate the challenging waters of medical condition by choosing laughter, joy, and perpetual optimism. Their story does not shy away from confronting the cruel reality of their situation but adds a unique layer of vibrancy to the heavy subject, thereby avoiding a traditional somber tone that might be expected from a disease-focused film.

Carole Franti's involvement in the movie as well brings another meaningful perspective on the definition of being human, enriching the overall narrative and deepening our understanding of the term's significance.

The film’s spirit is rooted in challenges that have the potential to crush us, yet miraculously inspire so many to keep faith, unveiling the grandeur of the human spirit. The protagonists unveil an incredible testament to unadulterated bravery and illuminate how adversity can shape and enhance our perception of life. This documentary attributes its power, not to psychologizing or to melodrama, but to the straightforward depiction of their subject's unwavering strength and resilience.

Stay Human also illustrates Michael Franti's world tour where he is seen interacting with different communities across the globe. These provide a wide-ranging perspective on global issues and reveal how music and universal love can act as a potent antidote to deep-seated worries. The musical vision of Franti seamlessly blended into the narrative offers audiences a unique experience of catharsis through art. Further, it ranges across topics such as gun violence, creating a layered narrative from different aspects of contemporary life.

The film’s photography is beautiful, presenting the audience with visual poetry that mirrors the documentary’s deeply resonating messages. Its careful selection of softly lit, intimate shots feels like an extended warm hug that reminds us of the power of fraternity and hope in the face of adversity.

The profound title, "Stay Human," is indicative of the thought-provoking and compassionate content that urges us to stay connected, empathetic, and humane at every juncture of life. It is a journey that showcases tales of resilience and hope rendered beautifully through moving narratives and scenic visuals, delivered with an unquenchable spirit of optimism.

Strikingly candid in its honesty and unforgettable in its emotional impact, Stay Human uplifts, enlightening the audience about the power of love, positivity, and music in challenging times. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that will make you laugh, cry, and reaffirm your faith in humanity. It unfurls as a testament to the endearing strength of the human spirit, connecting the audience with diverse stories and experiences that serve as a reminder of humanity's propensity to endure, overcome, and most importantly, to stay human.