Film Review: Golden Door

We have all come from somewhere else or at least our ancestors have. I am intrigued with the struggle because as I learn about the hardships faced by many immigrants I feel I am learning about my history. This film has been an entry in several film festivals. The film begins in Sicily. We learn about the living conditions of the poor Italians. One family decides that they can improve their lives if they travel to the new world. They take very little with them and head away from the rocky, hilly terrain towards the boat that will take them to a better life. Most of the film takes place on the boat. I felt the heat and the dirt. They were herded like cattle. Each person had a bunk. The bunks were lined in a row and right up against one another. To add to the interest a young English woman also is on the boat. She wants to marry before reaching America. She takes a shine to one of the Italian family members. The horror continues when they reach Ellis Island. It was horrifying. They were treated like criminals. They were mal treated and humiliated. Some were sent back because they were infirm or considered not intelligent enough. Many were forced to marry an unknown person to allow their entry. The film never shows them actually living in America. I had to come home and take a shower. It was overwhelming to follow their pursuit to America. It is probably the story of many citizens living here today. I found it to be very powerful.