This film far exceeding my expections. From rural Guatemala to New York City, the film gives unique access to the personal lives on the characters. This really opened my eyes and changed the way I look at immigration in this country.

I'm a huge fan of everything Optimist has put out, starting with their documentary Living On One Dollar, which is when they originally met Luis, the main subject of Five Years North. This film is gripping, and truly takes you through the highs and lows of the immigrant experience, from the angle of young Luis to the ICE officer whose background + upbringing is a pretty major reveal. Don't miss it -- add this to your watchlist asap.

Once again, filmmakers Chris Temple and Zach Ingrasci show us the human side of polarizing political issues. I have long used their previous films, Living on One Dollar and Salam Neighbor, in my writing classes to generate meaningful discussion, and now I'll definitely add Five Years North. Your heart will break for Luis, a young Guatemalan teen with responsibilities well beyond his years. The other side of the issue is humanized by Judy, the ICE agent who must enforce the law. The filmmakers don't preach but give you stories that will make you think twice before you generalize about issues like immigration, poverty, and refugees. Please watch this movie and encourage others to watch it, too.