Watch How I Got Over

How I Got Over is an inspiring and captivating musical documentary film that follows the journey of six formerly incarcerated women who come together to form a theatre troupe called "The Returning Citizens." The film opens with an introduction to each of the women who share their personal stories of struggle, pain, and redemption. Alice, Cynthia, LaKeisha, Nicole, Rebecca, and Tyra all come from different backgrounds and have faced various challenges in life, including poverty, addiction, abuse, and incarceration.

Despite their differences, the women share a common goal – to reclaim their lives and find their voice through the power of art. They embark on a rigorous six-month theatre program, led by director/coach Roberta Uno, that involves writing, rehearsing, and performing a play that reflects their experiences as women who have been in and out of prison.

As the women work on their play, titled "The Rooming House," they confront their past trauma and learn to trust and support each other. The process is not easy, as they face obstacles such as limited time, conflicting personalities, and emotional triggers. However, they persevere through their challenges and find solace in their newfound sisterhood.

The film captures the rehearsals, performances, and intimate moments of the women's lives, showcasing their raw talent, resilience, and bravery. The play itself acts as a powerful medium for the women to unpack and confront their past while highlighting the systemic issues that led them to incarceration in the first place.

Throughout their journey, we see the women overcome their fears, doubts, and insecurities, proving that they are more than their past mistakes. Their stories are a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit and a reminder that anyone can find healing and hope through the arts.

How I Got Over blends music, spoken word, dance, and theatre to create a unique and moving experience that celebrates the power of creativity and community. The film is beautifully shot and edited, with stunning visuals and a soulful soundtrack that adds depth and emotion to the women's stories.

Overall, How I Got Over is a must-see film that speaks to the human experience and the transformative power of art. It leaves a lasting impact on its viewers and highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and support for those who have been marginalized by society.

How I Got Over is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.