This video competed in
The She Directed Filmmaker Contest
Director(s): Leah Warshawski
BIG SONIA is a feature documentary that profiles 93-year old Sonia Warshawski - Holocaust survivor, diva and grandma. Rooted in the past, and deeply relevant now. Bullying and hate are on the rise in our country and BIG SONIA creates empathy, builds community, and changes lives.
Since our release (one day after the Election in 2016), BIG SONIA has screened at more than 75 film festivals, 200 community screenings, won 22 awards, and screened for Members of Congress and Senate. If we win this contest, funds will go towards distributing our educational package to middle schools and high schools across the country. There has never been a more important time to share the messages in this film. Thank you for your support!
Produced / Directed by Sonia's granddaughter, Leah Warshawski. Filmed and edited by Todd Soliday.
Learn more at www.bigsonia.com. #soniaeffect #smallmattersbig #loveoverhate
- Beautiful
- Courageous
- Funny
- Informative
- Inspiring
- Persuasive
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Erin6 years ago
Leah! Erin Ryan from Alex, Stop here! CONGRATS on your placement in this contest! My jaw dropped at the beautiful shot of Sonia getting into her car, and then frames later we enjoy her steering wheel. What beautiful details; I'm so excited to learn more about you through your work and I look forward to experiencing the full film as well as all of your future work.
Maureen H6 years ago
A great and entertaining film with a memorable message and lessons for all. Big Sonia is amazing and so is she.
Jill6 years ago
Amazing and grabs your heart! A must see.
Brian6 years ago
Great to see a story that is educational and entertaining. The filmmaking makes this documentary feel like a film. Well done!
Becki6 years ago
I have seen the film twice and met Sonia at one of the screenings. It's a difficult subject but inspiring to watch how she has made an impact on others, encouraging them to believe in themselves and to take action. The story is timely, we are still needing to apply lessons learned to todays environment. I promise you, you will be empowered to do so after watching this film.
Connie6 years ago
Sonia's story is so well done. There will be no one to tell these stories again, within our lifetime. Important film.
Leah6 years ago
I can't express how grateful our entire team is for your continued votes, shares, and good karma - THANK YOU from our hearts! Nobody said this would be easy...
Steve6 years ago
I’m in the film with my 3 girls. Sonia is my personal friend. She is an amazing woman. Leah and her husband worked hard and did a beautiful job capturing Sonia in her true element. The whole family is stacked with wonderful people. We love them all.
Sheri6 years ago
I shared this film with my students this spring and they loved it. Wonderful addition to a Holocaust education unit. Sonia is such an interesting person. Would love to meet her in person but this film is the next-best thing. Viewers can tell the family connections in making the film; feels like it was made with love along with admiration.
Patrick6 years ago
We're extremely proud of Leah and Todd producing such a powerful and captivating film about a woman of incredible strength, resilience, compassion, and humility. Everyone should see this amazing film. God Bless Ya Sonia!