In the Democratic Republic of Congo, hundreds of young polio victims with malformed legs, unable to walk upright, are destined not only to crawl or be carried, but are often shunned by their own families. “Walk Walk Walk,” a new short documentary by Ken Kobre (“Deadline Every Second”) showcases the revolutionary work of Dr. Jay Nash and his non-profit organization Stand Proud, which provides free plaster casts, braces, crutches, physical therapy, and medical assistance to a generation of formerly crippled kids. In emotionally wrenching interviews and scenes, we witness the transformation of determined teens who can now not only stand tall and walk proud for the first time, but also gleefully dance and enthusiastically participate in athletic endeavors that once seemed impossibly beyond their dreams.

Juror comments: The short documentary Walk, Walk, Walk, by Ken Kobre, takes us on a journey to The Democratic Republic of Congo, to show viewers the heart-wrenching obstacles which hundreds of young polio victims are faced with. Dr. Jay Nash and his "Stand Proud" non-profit organization are able to make significant changes in the lives of these children. The transformation of these young victims is sure to make your heart happy!

Sometimes we forgot how blessed our lives are until we are made aware of the struggles of others around the globe. This documentary is a true eye opener and a must see for all. It made me realize that my worst day isn't so bad when I see the struggles of children my own age who live in a country, and under conditions, much different from my own.

This documentary showcases the lives of children my own age and gives viewers an up close look at the real struggles some of them face. Many kids around the world are fortunate enough to live within developed countries where medical needs are easily afforded and a priority. I can't say that I like the content of this documentary, as it was quite emotional for me to watch. However I really like that this documentary made me so aware of the hardships faced by kids (and adults) living in third world countries.

Although heart wrenching, the film's cinematography is perfect in highlighting the pain and suffering of those living with disabling diseases. A variety of children affected by polio and other diseases are interviewed and we get a great sense of what they are feeling. We can see through their emotion and, by reading their words, learn how they experience such hardships as their inability to walk. What moved me the most was seeing their transformation, through the help of Dr. Nash and his Stand Proud Organization. I was excited to see the changes in emotion when kids are able to walk for the first time!

The children in the Congo and other under developed countries have a very different culture compared to ours and their clothing reflects that. The kids wear uniforms to school and community people dress in their best clothes for their time of worship, which I found to be typical of their culture. We get right into their homes, schools, community centers and other places in this documentary. I have been in third world countries as I have done mission work in Central America, and the sets and locations are familiar to what I witnessed while doing my mission work. What I found to be very interesting, and somewhat shocking, is how primitive the "factory" and tools are where braces, crutches and other devices are made. The materials are basic, yet they are so effective! When viewing this documentary, we obviously need to give credit to all key players in the filmmaking process. Those that stand out the most are the people who allowed the filmmakers into their lives to witness their struggles and their fight for existence. I don't see these kids as actors, but rather - I see them as heroes with such bravery.

The message I took away from this film is that we should be very appreciative of our own lives and what we have, because our worst day is someone else’s very best day! Walk, Walk, Walk brings awareness to the struggles of others and shows how the needs of others can be addressed by a small group of caring and committed people. It doesn't always take high levels of technology to change the lives of others - it simply takes a will to care and some creativity. Because I have not been exposed to the harsh reality of polio, I had no idea how it affects people. We are fortunate enough in the United States to be vaccinated against these diseases. I was unaware that it even still exists elsewhere.

I actually cried while watching how much these kids suffer, both physically and emotionally, and when I saw their transformation due to the Stand Proud Organization, it made my heart so happy. My favorite scene is where one young boy wearing leg braces is picked helped by his classmate and put on a higher platform in his schoolyard. It appears as if they are walking from the schoolyard into the entrance of the school. Small acts of kindness go a long way.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 5 to 18, plus adults. This is an excellent family film that lends itself to some great family discussion following its viewing. Pain and suffering occur globally and, unless there is awareness, changes can't be made. Reviewed by Dominic D., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic