We are well used to documentaries showing us in the first world just how tough life in the developing countries really is, so the idea of another one is not really something to write home about. However Amar takes a slightly different approach. Presented without comment, the film simply follows the 14 year old Amar through his day – which consists of two jobs, and school. Without contribution apart from the occasional on- screen time stamp, the short film simply follows Amar.
This produces the unique effect of both seeing the bad in the situation but yet also the good in the people. Although it never takes a stand or makes a statement itself, the film cannot be criticised for this since it is clear as we watch this child working almost every hour of his day, that this situation is bad. It is a fine line though because the majority of the film is pretty upbeat, but I think it balances it well. The reason it does feel upbeat is that Amar himself is not shown throwing himself in the corner and waiting for death due to his situation; instead he puts his head down and works hard whenever he has to. Again this is a fine line situation because one does not want to take away the message that "see, it's fine, they love a bit of hard work", but for sure the spirit of Amar is encouraging.
It fits with the subtitle of the film, which is All Great Achievements Require Time, because it does offer hope that the spirit of a nation (as shown in the microcosm of Amar) will somehow work their way to a situation where 14 year old boys are not working two jobs while also trying to get an education. Technically the film looks really good with good camera movement no matter the scene and a clear image with plenty of color. It does walk a fine line in some regards but I think it works, making for a piece that doesn't shy away from the reality but shows a positive side to the individual, despite the situation. For an additional feel good factor it is worth mentioning that the director won a £1000 prize for his film and made good on his promise to give half to Amar – which is about 40,000 Rs compared to the 1,500 Rs that Amar earns.