Mamere Ngoya

We are going to America, a place where you can be anything you want to be.

Mamere Ngoya

The Good Lie, Reelive
Arthur

In America, you have to choose. You cannot be both.

Arthur

The Good Lie, Reelive
Jeremiah

We have lost everything. But still, we have each other.

Jeremiah

The Good Lie, Reelive
Carrie Davis

You cannot change what you do not confront.

Carrie Davis

The Good Lie, Reelive
Mamere Ngoya

I would die for my family, but I will not let them die for me.

Mamere Ngoya

The Good Lie, Reelive
Carrie Davis

You must believe you deserve it.

Carrie Davis

The Good Lie, Reelive
Jeremiah

Hope is a powerful thing. It can move mountains.

Jeremiah

The Good Lie, Reelive
Mamere Ngoya

You don't get to choose who you love.

Mamere Ngoya

The Good Lie, Reelive
Carrie Davis

Sometimes, you have to let go of the past to embrace the future.

Carrie Davis

The Good Lie, Reelive
Jeremiah

Everything we lost can still be found in our memories.

Jeremiah

The Good Lie, Reelive
Carrie Davis

Sometimes we need others to help us see our potential.

Carrie Davis

The Good Lie, Reelive
Mamere Ngoya

Life is a precious gift, do not waste it.

Mamere Ngoya

The Good Lie, Reelive
Arthur

Fear is normal, but courage is the choice to act.

Arthur

The Good Lie, Reelive
Jeremiah

Family is not just blood; it is the bonds of love we create.

Jeremiah

The Good Lie, Reelive
Mamere Ngoya

We are not slaves to our past; we are the authors of our future.

Mamere Ngoya

The Good Lie, Reelive
Carrie Davis

Each step we take is a step toward freedom.

Carrie Davis

The Good Lie, Reelive
Arthur

Your journey is just beginning.

Arthur

The Good Lie, Reelive
Mamere Ngoya

We must carry our stories with us, for they are our truth.

Mamere Ngoya

The Good Lie, Reelive
Jeremiah

In the heart of every storm, there is peace waiting to be found.

Jeremiah

The Good Lie, Reelive
Carrie Davis

You have the power to change the world; it starts with you.

Carrie Davis

The Good Lie, Reelive
Mamere Ngoya

Love is the only thing that can heal our wounds.

Mamere Ngoya

The Good Lie, Reelive
Jeremiah

No matter where we go, we carry our hearts with us.

Jeremiah

The Good Lie, Reelive

Home

Home by Phillip Phillips, Main theme song

Put It All On Me

Put It All On Me by Ed Sheeran, Played during a key emotional scene

We Are

We Are by Kacey Musgraves, Played during the end credits


Download App

The Lost Boys Escape

In a tense, heart-pounding moment, several young boys flee from a massacre in Sudan. The camera captures their fearful expressions and quick breaths as they navigate through gunfire and chaos. As they run for their lives, the sound of bullets creates an almost unbearable tension, highlighting their desperation and determination. This scene sets the foundation for their journey and the trauma they endure. The aftermath reveals how this horrific event shapes their character and drives them towards seeking safety and a new life.

Context: This scene introduces the main characters and establishes the dire circumstances that lead them to flee their homeland.

Reunion with Family

One of the brothers, Mamere, has a heart-wrenching moment when he finds his long-lost sister, Abital, in a refugee camp. Their embrace is filled with tears and disbelief, as they share stories of survival and loss. The surrounding camp fades away as their connection remains in focus, showcasing the strength of family ties amidst despair. This scene deepens the emotional resonance of their journey and the importance of reuniting.

Context: This moment underscores the theme of family and the lengths the characters go to find one another after separation due to war.

Facing the American Dream

When the Lost Boys arrive in America, they experience a mix of excitement and confusion. The bright lights and bustling city overwhelm them. The pivotal moment occurs when they realize the reality of being an immigrant— the struggle to fit in and the culture shock. There’s a powerful visual contrast between their hopeful expectations and harsh realities. The aftermath highlights their challenges in adapting to a new life, showcasing their resilience and determination.

Context: This scene illustrates the contrast between the idealized view of America and the reality faced by many immigrants.

The Job Interview

Mamere goes for a job interview, only to be met with ignorance and prejudice. The tension peaks when the interviewer makes a dismissive remark about his background. Mamere, hurt but resolute, responds with dignity, explaining his experiences. This moment is significant as it confronts discrimination head-on, showcasing Mamere's courage and determination to succeed in a new world. The aftermath leaves a lasting impact on his character and highlights the obstacles he must overcome.

Context: This scene addresses social issues, emphasizing the misunderstandings immigrants often face in their new countries.

Cultural Clash at the Dinner Table

During a family dinner with their new American friends, the Lost Boys try various dishes that are foreign to them. Their reactions are both comical and touching as they navigate unfamiliar customs. The pivotal moment arises when one of the boys accidentally spills food, leading to laughter. This lighthearted scene contrasts with their traumatic past, demonstrating how they find joy in small moments despite their previous hardships.

Context: This scene highlights the cultural differences and showcases the characters' attempts to adapt, injecting humor into the narrative.

The Flashback to Violence

In a quiet, reflective moment, Mamere experiences a flashback to the violence of his past, hearing the gunshots and seeing his friends fall. The imagery is haunting, conveying his deep emotional scars. The impact of this scene is profound, emphasizing the ongoing trauma the characters face as they adjust to their new life. This moment adds depth to Mamere’s character, showing the lasting effects of war.

Context: This scene deepens the understanding of the characters’ struggles with PTSD and their journey toward healing.

Standing Up for Each Other

In a moment of camaraderie, one brother defends another against a racist comment from a stranger. The tension escalates as the brothers must decide whether to stand their ground or walk away. They choose to stand together, showcasing their unity and shared experiences. This moment is powerful as it symbolizes their bond and the importance of supporting each other in a foreign environment.

Context: This scene represents themes of brotherhood and the strength found in solidarity against adversity.

The Job Offer

After several challenges, Mamere receives the job offer he desperately wanted. The pivotal moment is filled with joy and disbelief, as he learns that his hard work paid off. The camera captures his emotional reaction—tears, laughter, and hope. This scene marks a turning point in the narrative, symbolizing the possibility of success and the realization of their dreams in America.

Context: This moment illustrates the characters' resilience and determination, offering a glimpse of hope amid their struggles.

The Dance of Remembrance

At a community event, the Lost Boys share a traditional dance from their homeland. This moment is filled with joy and nostalgia, as they celebrate their culture. The music and movement create a vivid connection to their roots, showcasing the importance of memory and tradition in their lives. The scene ends on a poignant note, reminding viewers of their past but also their journey forward.

Context: This scene emphasizes the significance of cultural identity and the lasting connection to their homeland despite physical distance.

The Visit to the Refugee Home

The brothers visit a refugee home to help others in need, reflecting on their own experiences. The pivotal moment occurs when they share their story of survival. The audience feels a mix of sadness and inspiration as the Lost Boys connect with those still struggling. This scene reinforces the theme of compassion and the importance of giving back.

Context: This scene portrays the characters' growth and their understanding of the importance of community support.

The Heartfelt Farewell

In a gut-wrenching scene, the brothers must say goodbye to their new friends as they move to different states. The emotion peaks as they embrace tightly, overwhelmed with sadness and gratitude. They reflect on their journey together, finding strength in their shared experiences. This farewell underscores the theme of friendship and the bonds formed under difficult circumstances.

Context: This moment highlights the deep connections made throughout their journey and the bittersweet nature of new beginnings.

Finding Strength in Adversity

During a moment of despair, one of the brothers breaks down and questions their choices. The pivotal moment occurs when Mamere encourages him, reminding him of their strength and their family bonds. The emotional weight of this scene showcases the power of support and belief in one another. The aftermath highlights their resilience and determination to persevere, linking back to the film's core themes of hope.

Context: This scene emphasizes the importance of brotherhood and support in overcoming challenges.

Discovering New Love

Mamere meets a woman who shares his background and dreams. Their connection is immediate, filled with romance and hope. The acting captures the beauty of new love and the joy it brings after hardship. This moment signifies a shift in Mamere's journey as he starts to build a life in America. The aftermath highlights his ability to heal and embrace new beginnings.

Context: This scene introduces a new layer of optimism, showcasing love as a powerful force in their lives.

The Rite of Passage

The brothers participate in a local cultural festival, celebrating their heritage. The pivotal moment occurs when they perform their traditional rites in front of a supportive audience. The visuals are vibrant and celebratory, reinforcing their identity and sense of belonging. The scene serves as a reminder of their roots while embracing their new life in America.

Context: This scene showcases the power of cultural celebration and the importance of identity in the characters’ journey.

The Truth About the Past

Mamere finally opens up about his traumatic experiences to his new girlfriend, revealing the depth of his pain. The emotionally charged dialogue highlights his vulnerability and the challenge of moving forward. This moment creates a deeper bond between them, showcasing the importance of honesty in relationships. The aftermath reveals the healing process begins when one embraces their past.

Context: This scene emphasizes themes of vulnerability and the necessity of sharing burdens to find healing.

The Power of Forgiveness

In a surprising encounter, Mamere meets someone from his past who played a role in the violence he witnessed. Rather than seeking revenge, he chooses to forgive, showcasing personal growth. This moment is intense, filled with conflicting emotions as Mamere grapples with his past. The aftermath reflects his transformation and the desire for peace, resonating with viewers deeply.

Context: This scene culminates in a powerful lesson about forgiveness, highlighting the emotional weight of healing.

The Celebration of Independence

As the Lost Boys celebrate their first Fourth of July, the joy is palpable. Amidst fireworks and laughter, they reflect on their journey and what freedom means to them. The pivotal moment is when they raise their glasses in a toast, symbolizing hope and unity. This scene encapsulates the themes of freedom and belonging, marking a triumphant moment in their story.

Context: This celebration reinforces the idea of new beginnings and the emotional significance of living in a free country.

The Realization of Dreams

Mamere receives confirmation of his first job promotion, celebrating with his brothers. The reactions are filled with joy and pride, as they reflect on how far they have come. The visuals here capture their laughter and tears of happiness. This moment signifies the achievement of a dream, highlighting their resilience and hard work.

Context: This scene underscores the potential for success despite struggles, reinforcing themes of hope and perseverance.

The Final Homecoming

In the closing scene, the brothers stand together, looking at the horizon, contemplating their journey. The camera captures their expressions of hope and determination. The pivotal moment is silent yet powerful, as it symbolizes not just their past but their future. This final scene leaves viewers with a sense of closure, emphasizing the theme of moving forward from trauma.

Context: This moment concludes their story while leaving room for new beginnings, highlighting resilience in the face of adversity.


Download App

Casting of Real Refugees

The filmmakers employed a unique casting approach by selecting many actors from refugee backgrounds, specifically those who had fled the Sudanese civil war, to bring authenticity to the story.

Why it matters: This choice added depth and realism to the performances, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with the struggles faced by the characters. The actors' real-life experiences infused the film with genuine emotion, making their portrayals resonate profoundly.

Rehearsals in the Sudanese Culture

Prior to filming, the cast participated in intensive cultural training workshops where they learned about Sudanese traditions, customs, and the crisis that led to their characters being refugees.

Why it matters: These workshops helped actors inhabit their roles more authentically, influencing their performances by making them more aware of the nuances of their characters' backgrounds and motivations, enhancing the film's emotional impact.

Filming Location Challenges

The crew faced significant challenges while filming in South Africa, including difficult weather conditions and logistical issues that mirrored the hardships experienced by the Sudanese refugees.

Why it matters: These authentic challenges contributed to the film's realistic portrayal of struggle and hardship, ensuring that the environment reflected the emotional weight of the narrative.

On-Set Oral Histories

Many of the actors shared their own family stories and experiences related to displacement during production, enriching the film’s narrative with additional layers of authenticity.

Why it matters: This sharing of personal stories created an emotional bond between the cast and the material, resulting in more heartfelt performances and impacting audience perception of the refugee experience.

Director Philippe Falardeau's Vision

Director Philippe Falardeau emphasized maintaining a balance between the serious themes of the film and moments of levity, which he believed were crucial for storytelling.

Why it matters: This directorial choice allowed the audience to engage with the narrative more fully, making intense moments more poignant while providing them with breaths of relief through humor, enhancing the film's emotional range.

The Impact of Dialogue

Much of the dialogue was influenced by actual conversations with Sudanese refugees, providing the script with an authentic voice.

Why it matters: This authentic dialogue not only contributed to the cultural accuracy of the film but also made the scenes more relatable and affecting, creating an emotionally charged viewing experience.

Real-Life Inspirations

The story, based on true events, was influenced by the experiences of the Lost Boys of Sudan, showcasing the resilience of those who escaped their war-torn homeland.

Why it matters: By grounding the narrative in real histories, the film invited viewers to reflect on the broader implications of displacement and survival, giving it a deeper socio-political relevance.

Emphasis on Language and Accents

The cast worked closely with accent coaches to develop authentic Sudanese accents, ensuring that dialogue sounded genuine.

Why it matters: This attention to linguistic detail significantly enhanced the film’s authenticity and made audiences more immersed in the characters' experiences, achieving a more believable portrayal of their cultural identity.

The Influence of Music

The score was composed to evoke the emotional landscape of the story, using traditional African instruments to tie the music back to Sudanese culture.

Why it matters: This musical choice heightened the emotional stakes of pivotal moments in the film, reinforcing the cultural backdrop and enhancing the overall atmosphere, creating a more evocative viewing experience.

The Role of the Community

Many scenes were shot in collaboration with local Sudanese communities, incorporating their input and advice to ensure cultural sensitivity.

Why it matters: This engagement not only fostered community relations but also ensured authentic representations, making the film a more respectful and accurate reflection of the refugee experience.

Last-Minute Casting Changes

There were several last-minute casting decisions, particularly for lead roles, which altered the dynamic of the ensemble.

Why it matters: These changes potentially influenced the chemistry among the actors and led to spontaneous moments in performances that were captured on film, adding authenticity and visceral energy to the final product.

The Emotional Toll of Filming

Filming emotionally intense scenes took a toll on the cast, many of whom drew from personal experiences or the stories of those close to them.

Why it matters: This emotional investment led to powerful on-screen performances that conveyed the weight of the narrative, leaving lasting impressions on the audience and through actor delivery.

Impactful Stunt Coordination

Stunt coordinators worked with the actors to portray stark realities, such as dangerous moments fleeing conflict, ensuring safety while capturing raw emotion.

Why it matters: The carefully choreographed scenes heightened the film’s intensity and realism, enabling audiences to feel the adrenaline and fear of the characters' experiences, making their journey more compelling.

Subtle Symbolism in Costumes

Costume designers collaborated with refugees to create clothing that reflected their realities, often incorporating elements with personal stories and significance.

Why it matters: These costume choices added layers of meaning to characters, making their journeys visually impactful and adding authenticity to their representations, enriching the storytelling.

The Role of Support Groups

The production team organized support groups during filming that mirrored the sense of community depicted in the movie, providing actors with emotional resources.

Why it matters: This helped build genuine camaraderie among the cast, resulting in believable interactions that stood out in scenes, enhancing the film’s emotional truth.

Filming with Real Locations

Scenes were filmed in actual locations that resembled the Sudanese landscape, as much as possible, to enhance authenticity.

Why it matters: Using real-world locations helped ground the film in reality, allowing the audience to connect more deeply with the characters' struggles and triumphs, reinforcing the film's essence.

Actors' Emotional Backstories

Some actors based their characters on interviews with real Sudanese refugees, learning their stories to portray their struggles accurately.

Why it matters: This preparation process ensured performances were respectful and true to real experiences, allowing for powerful storytelling that resonated strongly with viewers.

Screenplay Refinements Through Collaboration

The screenplay underwent numerous revisions, with input from refugees and consultants who provided insights into their experiences, ensuring accuracy and sensitivity.

Why it matters: This collaborative writing process not only made the script stronger but also deepened the film's commitments to truthfulness and compassion, positively influencing the final narrative.


Download App

The Social Media App for Movie & TV Enthusiasts
👉 Reelive App 👈

No mods, no censorship—just a space to relive epic movie moments. Like Reddit, but made for movie lovers.

Download App

A Star Is Born

Saving Private Ryan

The Best of Youth