Arna's Children
Metascore
73 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 8 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
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  1. Christian Science Monitor
    Reviewed by: David Sterritt
    100
    Contains amazingly candid views of warriors behind the scenes of battle.
  2. TV Guide
    Reviewed by: Ken Fox
    80
    In the end, the film is both a fitting elegy for Arna and the children she tried to help and a deeply disturbing warning about what will continue to breed within the occupied territories until peace is brought to Palestine.
  3. Variety
    Reviewed by: Ronnie Scheib
    80
    Must-see docu penetrates a Jenin refugee camp to follow several Palestinian children from laughing little kids in a theater group to grim actors on a grislier world stage.
  4. New York Daily News
    Reviewed by: r
    75
    The film provides a rare glimpse into the other side of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and serves as a chilling reminder that the hostilities aren't about to end anytime soon.
  5. New York Post
    Reviewed by: V.A. Musetto
    75
    The documentary takes no sides, but its bleak message is all too clear.
  6. Village Voice
    Reviewed by: David Blaylock
    70
    Refreshing and depressing.
  7. Chicago Reader
    Reviewed by: Jonathan Rosenbaum
    70
    In contrast to the clueless media cliches about suicide bombers, this offers a comprehensive and comprehending portrait of what helps to produce them.
  8. The New York Times
    Reviewed by: Manohla Dargis
    60
    Has the makings of a great documentary, but a subject as complex as this demands greater rigor, deeper intelligence and a sense of dialectics.

User Reviews

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User Score
7.9 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 12 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 8
  3. Negative: 2 out of 8
  1. Wael
    9
    A wonderful movie that depicts the big picture of the circle of violence in that troubled part of the world. Many will disagree however, but 8 years of filiming is no doubt an extraordinary work and deserve an 80 minute watch, which is its length. Juliano Mer Khamis is indeed presents an inside deep look as he himself worked at the Israeli defense force and has witnessed army atrocities for which he spent 16 months in prison for reacting to one incidence. Conclusion: MUST SEE!… Full Review »
  2. ClareQ.
    9
    This film is a deeply human, straightforward depiction of children's lives in the occupied territories, and the psychological damage the violence and deprivation that is part of their everyday lives has upon them. It is also a testiment to what can happen when prejudice is put aside - let us not forget that the directors are Israeli Jews. In an age where terrorism is a buzz word and justifies all and any reprisals, this film is a reminder of the realities that create violence, and is relevant to us all.… Full Review »
  3. JeniS.
    9
    Amazing documentary, and yet so very sad in truth. This woman had the future --- the very lives of so many children --- in her hands, and in her effort to empower, she taught ongoing condemnation. We must seek peace through collaboration... not retalliation.… Full Review »
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