“He Named Me Malala” is a poignant and intimate portrayal of young Malala Yousafzai, a girl from Pakistan who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, after the Taliban made an assassination attempt on her life. Malala is a champion of equality in education, and some people have not appreciated her views, although she has inspired untold numbers of people, both male and female. This film is based on her book, which chronicles her story of survival after being struck in the forehead with a bullet. Her physical therapy and rebounding health took grit and determination, with which Malala is strong. She also possesses a kindness and sense of humor that help her deal with her daily life. She shares a bond with her father, who named her Malala and supports her all the way.
What’s amazing about this extraordinary teen girl is her lack of anger toward those who attempted to take her life. She and her father strive to endorse their belief in a peaceful Islamic religion, not the one of extreme terrorists. In the film, she meets some famous people, including President Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, the Queen of England, and Barbara Streisand. The film concludes powerfully, too, and shows a major speech that Malala gave following her recovery, in which she concludes by saying one pen, one book, one child can change the world. She receives a standing ovation.
We are pleased to award this wonderful film about this amazing young woman our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal for ages 12-plus. This film illustrates beautifully that one person can indeed make a difference in this world.
