Adam, Justin, Hedi, and Jacqueline are survivors of four different genocides, and their stories are frighteningly similar.  As these hopeful characters direct us through their astonishing tales of separation from their families, the breakdown of their humanity, and eventual escapes, it's hard not to identify with them.  We watch as they continue to seek out success, and spread the word of these atrocities.

The film is well shot with some really absorbing cinematic jewels, including one standout image of a spinning flower in an old woman's hand representing hope.  It's one of those incredible independent films that communicates a universal message, and develops characters you fall in love with.  The filmmakers mix imagery of unbelievable crimes, with moments of great poetic example that time heals all things. The pacing is smooth, the music is supportive, and the editing is a promising example of young talent.

I was fortunate enough to experience the movie in a screening at the Dallas International Film Festival this week.  The audience was as diverse as the characters in the film, and really responded to the material.  The Producers worked with community partners to access audiences with an invested interest in the subject, mixed with film fest patrons, to create an impressive diversity of backgrounds and beliefs.  In general, the response was unanimous that The Last Survivor has purpose, and cinematically delivers a beautiful message.  If enough people band together to demand basic humanity for every living person on the planet, there can one day be the last survivor distinguishing the end of mass genocide.

This film offers promise to both genocide survivors, and filmmakers alike.  If I were you, I'd add the list of filmmakers from this team, on your monthly IMDB checkup list!