Despite its heavy subject matter and the melancholy this film is sure to evoke from anyone with a heart who views it, Oliver Schmitz's Life, Above All is not a film to be missed by anyone who calls oneself a lover of film.   You can (and should) add this DVD to your collection when it's released this Tuesday.

S&A's MsWOO first reviewed the film HERE.

If not for any other reason, I recommend seeing Life, Above All especially for the outstanding performances by its younger stars, Khomotso Manyaka and Keaobaka Makanyane.From the Amazon.com page for Life, Above All (where you can order the DVD):

Just after the death of her newly born sister, Chanda (12) learns of a rumour spreading through her small village near Johannesburg. It destroys her family and forces her mother to flee. Chanda leaves home and school in search of her mother – and the truth. Life, Above All is an emotional and universal drama about a young girl (stunningly performed by first-time-actress Khomotso Manyaka) who fights the fear and shame that have poisoned her community. The film captures the enduring strength of loyalty and a courage powered by the heart. Directed by South African filmmaker Oliver Schmitz (Mapantsula, Paris, je t-aime), it is based on the international award winning novel 'Chanda's Secrets' by Allan Stratton.

Life, Above All will be released on DVD in the U.K. on 01/23/2012.