Sight (2023) Poster

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8/10
A Movie for Adults
bkort-4919026 May 2024
A very uplifting story of a surgeon attempting to restore sight to a young Indian girl. He's a Chinese immigrant who lived through difficult time during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. He has some very bad experiences in China, and great challenges as an adult.

Some critics have found cuts between his childhood and adulthood disconcerting. They seem obvious to me and created the narrative of the story.

This movie is oriented towards adults. While dealing with some difficult topics, it does it with sensitivity and optimism. This is the kind of movie that Hollywood lost interest in years ago. While I enjoy comic book movies, it's very refreshing to see a movie that uplifts you. It's well worth a couple hours to enjoy.
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7/10
I could do without the call for donations at the end
steiner-sam28 May 2024
Warning: Spoilers
It's an inspirational biopic of Ming Wang (Jaydn Zhang/Ben Wang/Terry Chen), an ophthalmologist who survived the Cultural Revolution in China. It's set in Hangzhou, China, MIT in Massachusetts, and Nashville, Tennessee, ranging from 1968 to 2007.

"Sight" begins in Nashville, where we learn that Ming is a brilliant ophthalmologist whose laser science background allows him to be innovative in working with corneas to restore sight. We meet Ming's colleague Misha (Greg Kinnear) and a young Indian girl, Kajal (Mia SwamiNathan), who was deliberately blinded by her parents to make her a more effective beggar.

The film follows Ming's efforts to restore Kajal's sight. At the same time, flashbacks recount his struggles growing up in China under challenging times with his parents, Zhensheng (Donald Heng/Raymond Ma) and Alian (Leanne Wang/Wai Ching), and younger brother, Yu (Kelvin Luo/Garland Chang). There is also his first love, Lili (Kiana Luo/Sara Ye), whose disappearance during the Cultural Revolution haunts him into adulthood. Ming's self-confidence is tested until he works through his spiritual crisis. The film provides modest flashes of the racial bias Ming encountered in the United States.

"Sight" is produced by Angel Studios, so it follows a particular formula. The protagonist faces severe trials, but recovery of faith brings inner resolution. The Christian message is light-handed, except when the real Ming Wang speaks at the end and proposes viewers give an offering to "pay it forward" for other viewers.

Ben Wang and Terry Chen play Ming convincingly. Sara Ye is an excellent Lili, and Mia SwamiNathan is also effective. The rest of the supporting cast is serviceable but not memorable. Given its nature, the scenes in the Cultural Revolution are not over-the-top in violence. The film leaves many gaps in details about Ming's life, e.g., how and when his family got to North America.
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7/10
Great story, told a little slow
bentfins25 May 2024
This could have been a 10 were it not for the pace in several places. I was also a bit put out by the music. There were scenes involving a traditional Chinese instrument being played, that were overshadowed by accompanying European strings. It was very odd. Still, I recommend the movie for the interesting true story and inspirational facets. My wife really enjoyed it, and says it was an 8 for her. If you've ever seen some leftist propaganda on campus or the news, and thought to yourself "we should give that a try in the USA," this movie will enlighten you to the deadly folly that actually is. Recommended viewing for 13 and up.
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9/10
Great story told beautifully!
Nathiri26 May 2024
I rarely give movies a 9 but I was very impressed at the production value and pacing of the film. It's not too long of a movie (about 1 hour 40) but goes into great depth of the life of Dr Wang and his past.

The movie flips back and forth between time periods but not in a way that's jarring and is generally well-placed and adds to the story and understanding of the character.

One issue with these types a movies is that it can sometimes feel slow/drag but I never lost interest or drifted over the film's duration, even after working 10 hours earlier in the day and being awake since 2am then watching a 7pm showing.

So I definitely highly recommend this film to everyone I know.
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7/10
More science than religion.
RegalsReelView27 May 2024
A pioneer in his field, Dr. Wang restores eyesight to patients who were told it was impossible by others. When he decides to take a pediatric patient from India, who lost her sight brutally, a ghost from Dr. Wang's past reemerges. As he journeys to find an appropriate treatment for his patient, he struggles to come to terms with the past and live in the present. In the end, it is the patient who helped Dr. Wang see clearly how living in the present and far more healing than being tormented by reliving the past.

Another Angel Studios production, this movie shares the story of Dr. Wang, who pushed the limits of science and developed new techniques and technologies to help restore his patients' eyesight. With the runtime clocking in at one hour and forty minutes, the story is balanced but has some scenes that could have been adjusted to streamline the story and compress the time. The story focuses more on Dr. Wang's life history and the method, procedure, and research he developed, with just a touch of religion. The movie is emotional, inspiring, and heartfelt. This is a solid movie to catch in the cinema for those looking for something less mainstream and a great watch at home; either way, it should be watched.
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10/10
The most inspiring and favorite movie I've seen in the United States
chicagojingjing26 May 2024
Yesterday, I went to watch the movie "SIGHT" with my friends. It's based on the true story of a Chinese immigrant doctor, which makes it even more touching and inspiring! Despite focusing on the story of Chinese immigrants, everyone, whether Chinese, American, or second-generation immigrants from any country, feels inspired after watching it. Some are immediately motivated to become doctors, like a second-generation Chinese student at Yale who said it's her favorite movie. When a movie can influence both you and your children, that's a true mark of a great film! Although we haven't experienced as many hardships as Dr. Ming, we can see in the film how he and his family overcame numerous challenges, step by step, to achieve their dreams and continually pursue excellence with optimism, perseverance, and love. Highly recommend!
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10/10
True, moving, inspiring, uplifting
This true, moving story was so beautifully filmed and the acting was superb. Angel Studios just keeps hitting home runs! The movie had me in tears more than once. We need more movies which inspire, stir our souls, and make that human connection. We don't all have the same experiences, but human emotions are common to us all and it benefits everyone to share in these true stories of dedication, love, overcoming trials and injustice, perseverance, and triumph.

Bonus: stay to the very end and see video of the REAL doctor and actual old photographs of the characters you got to know during the course of the movie!

Go watch it and thank me later!
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2/10
Disappointed
lauraonlinepurchase25 May 2024
Dr. Wang's story is inspiring, but the movie is poorly made. Most of the cast can't act, and their Mandarin sounds way off! It's weird, especially since part of the movie is set in China in the 60s and 70s. The transitions between the present and the flashbacks are awkward and disjointed, making it hard to follow the story. The flashbacks weren't even filmed in Hangzhou, probably because they were on a tight budget. Plus, the history is not right. No one during the Cultural Revolution would call it an uprising or riot so straightforwardly. The director could have paid more attention to these details. It's such a waste of a good original story.
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10/10
His past helped him
jd986024 May 2024
Warning: Spoilers
This is a great story of how his past shaped and prepared him for what he was facing in the present. At first he thinks he's stuck but then he gets a new perspective on his memories and it fuels him into new successes. What he thought was unsuccessful in the moment turned out to help him step into a new thought process and fueled him towards success in a later surgery. As he begins to embrace this new more well rounded thought process he begins to find healing from his own darkness. This enabled a foundation to be set up and many more people have been able to enjoy the miracle of seeing once again.
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4/10
Not as inspiring as advertised
ivagayle25 May 2024
We have seen several Angel Network movies, so we were looking forward to seeing SIGHT. I bought 4 tickets a month in advance for my husband, myself and 2 friends. After the movie all 4 off us went to lunch together. The overall opinion was SIGHT was just OKAY. Unfortunately, it did not compare to the trailers or advertisements.

I have had several people ask my opinion and I ask them what type of movie are they hoping for...?

If you want a documentary, you might enjoy this movie.

If you want a truly inspirational and uplifting movie, this will fall short.

All four of us agreed this is not a movie we would purchase for our online library or even stream again.
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8/10
Good movie can't believe it was real.
patrick-province27 May 2024
Interesting perspective on the Chinese cultural revolution. And an amazing story of the development of cutting edge laser eye surgery. It's definitely worth watching.

Heart warming tale about life and what matters most.

The journey is from a doctors childhood in revolutionary china where his childhood best friend and love interests father lost his sight through studying hard and perseverance he has become a laser eye surgeon who has done what many would consider impossible. This is set back about 20 years so you may even have been someone who used his technology and have improved sight today.
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9/10
Amazing movie - Best I've seen in a while
nancy244524 May 2024
I went to this movie not expecting a lot and not knowing much about the story. I was totally engrossed from the beginning. It was really amazing, and I don't say that about very many movies. This being a true story makes it even better. You will meet this amazing doctor at the start of the movie, travel back in time to his upbringing, and back to the present time when he devotes his life to helping people gain or regain their sight. Acting was marvelous. When the movie ended, I sat pretty much stunned by how it moved me. This studio is known for making faith-based films, but that is not central to the story.

Don't let this movie get by you - see it before it's gone.
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10/10
Jaw-dropping film - Contributions of Dr. Ming are astounding
gloriamiles27 May 2024
This is a Jaw-dropping film. The contributions of Dr. Ming are astounding in this movie 'Sight'.

My rating on 'Sight' is a 10/10 Have you ever wondered why guys like Dr. Ming are ignored by the left/wing?

Our country celebrates the lowIQ. They put on pedestals rappers/athletes/actors/singers/talk-show hosts, but almost never celebrate Asian-Americans contributions despite: 85% of all cancer researchers are Asian-American 90% of all semi-conductor work is done by Asian-Americans 90% of all lukemia, diabetes, arthritis laboratory work is done by Asian-Americans They work under the shadows in total humility while the jive-talking people have conned our entire nation into thinking they're important.

THANK YOU ANGEL STUDIOS for having the guts to put the work of a true hero - Dr. Ming and his work in restoring eye-sight - to the forefront.

May this encourage all Asian-Americans to keep going. We need you. You're way more important than some basketball player with his Nike shoe deal or Oprah Winfrey and her talk show. WAY. MORE. IMPORTANT.
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4/10
A QR Code on the Big Screen? Good story ruined by an informercial
stevetarrr30 May 2024
The story itself is good but it, unfortunately, is not presented well. The technical production - music, sound, lighting, cinematography, costume - all are excellent. The dialogue and shaping of the characters was good for 90% of the movie. A frequent use of flashbacks is very effective for setting the tone for the modern-day character struggles. I started this review with 8 stars.

So what goes wrong? The dialogue is shallow and obvious. It doesn't reveal characters, it comes right out and tells you. We, the audience, doesn't need to be told once we understand the characters. I would liken the dialogue to a cheesy primetime network pseudo-drama about fires, police, or hospitals. Review drops to 6 stars. Still watchable.

What goes very wrong? The last 10% got silly and I wondered why. The answer: it was a lead up to a QR code on the Big Screen. Turns out the whole story was one large (and often well-done) infomercial.
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8/10
Outstanding depiction of 1970s-1980s China and modern medical research in USA
suzannescherr27 May 2024
Inspiring and moving on several levels - deals with dark topics (recommended for older teens and up) without deviance or sexuality. As another reviewer mentioned, the portrayals of authoritarian government are sobering for a time such as this. The script follows two convening stories - that of the young life of Dr Wang with the defining influences of his difficult life story and that of a not-for-profit eye research center in the USA (led by Dr Wang). Alongside Dr Wang's admirable victories of intellect and persistence, the movie exposes his vulnerability as a human being to less-than-healthy responses to horrendous experiences. Such truthful portrayal, especially of his struggle with his own ego, gives this movie a powerful entry into our own struggles. We are encouraged to shake off the dust and use our broken lives for noble purposes. Both my husband and I teared up more than once. The photos and videos of the real Dr Wang and other persons at the end were worth the wait. On another level, I really enjoyed hearing spoken Mandarin (English subtitles) and seeing real depictions of mainland China at the end of the 20th century. The movie treats the Chinese people and culture with enormous respect, much needed today.
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10/10
Inspiring true story - must see movie
bennett-8754127 May 2024
Inspiring true story. Well made movie.

There was a small part of the movie I considered a little slow, but this self reflective section turned out to be my daughter's favorite part!

So it is well worth watching for everyone!

Inspiring as we all work through hardships, buy not usually as hard as his. He went through a lot trying to learn/study in China and in the United States. Overcame many life challenges. Just go see the movie it wont make you regret you 2 hours as many movies do. I'm trying to send this review, but it is making me type more characters. But trust me, just go see it!!!!!!!
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10/10
A powerful film, must watch.
yiwen-6816727 May 2024
Warning: Spoilers
"The Sight" is an inspiring and deeply moving film that chronicles the extraordinary journey of a Chinese eye doctor whose brilliance and perseverance lead him from the chaos of his homeland to the heights of medical excellence in the United States. Directed with a keen eye for both personal and historical drama, this movie is a testament to the power of family, friendship, and faith.

The narrative begins with a vivid depiction of the protagonist's early life, set against the backdrop of the Cultural Revolution in China. Schools are destroyed, textbooks are burned, and an entire generation faces upheaval. Yet, amidst this turmoil, we meet a young boy with an insatiable thirst for knowledge. His parents, portrayed with warmth and strength, provide unwavering support and guidance, instilling in him the values of diligence, honor, and compassion.

As the boy grows into a brilliant student, his journey becomes one of intense dedication and resilience. The scenes capturing his preparation for the national exams are gripping, showcasing the enormity of his achievement-placing among the top four students out of twelve million participants. The pride and joy of his parents as they send him off to the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in America is palpable and heartwarming.

Once in the United States, the film shifts to explore the themes of friendship and honor. The protagonist faces the guilt of leaving behind a dear friend, who might have become more than just a friend, adding a layer of emotional complexity to his character. This inner struggle is portrayed with sensitivity and depth, making the audience feel his pain and conflicted sense of duty.

The turning point of the film arrives with the introduction of a blind girl from India, whose unwavering faith and spirituality inspire the protagonist. Her belief in Jesus Christ and the hope she finds in her church illuminate a new path for him, blending his scientific passion with a newfound spiritual mission. This relationship is beautifully developed, showcasing how it propels him to envision a future where he can help more people see the light, both literally and metaphorically.

"The Sight" is not just a story of personal triumph; it also serves as a poignant reflection on the broader historical and cultural contexts that shape individuals. The film does an excellent job of interweaving the protagonist's personal narrative with the larger tapestry of Chinese history, illustrating how the past informs the present.

The cinematography is stunning, capturing both the stark realities of the Cultural Revolution and the hopeful expanses of the American landscape. The performances are equally compelling, with the lead actor delivering a nuanced portrayal of a man torn between his roots and his ambitions.

In conclusion, "The Sight" is a powerful film that celebrates the indomitable human spirit. It teaches valuable lessons about family, friendship, honor, and faith, while also providing a captivating historical account. This movie is a must-watch for anyone seeking an uplifting and thought-provoking experience.
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9/10
Uplifting true story based on early life of trials
gprtbcpdc27 May 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Sight is a beautiful story of an eye doctor who endured many struggles in his past but overcame many odds to succeed and find ways for some patients to benefit from his study. When he failed, he took it personally. He had family and friends who believed in him and supported him through difficult times. It was beautiful to see the switch from childhood to present day and to see how one prepared him for the future challenges. It was beautiful to see how sometimes we can see, yet are blind and how the blind can often see more clearly than those of us with sight. With society filled with so much conflict, this movie is a breath of fresh air by people who work as a team for the common good!
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10/10
Superb!
calebdubose-3844525 May 2024
This true story was superbly told, with the past and the present merging perfectly together. I was not familiar with Dr. Ming Wang's story as far as what he had been through and what he has presently accomplished. We so enjoyed the film and highly recommend for EVERYONE to watch it! The story is very touching. It really is incredible as you learn about his background and the circumstances in which he endured, as he prepared to study to become a doctor! The patience, wisdom, and endurance of his parents also adds another layer to the amazing story, in which he accomplishes his dream of becoming a doctor. Be prepared to shed a few (or many!) tears!
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10/10
Go SEE this film & it will OPEN YOUR EYES!!!
rutanclassroom25 May 2024
SIGHT is another powerful and moving production from Angel Studios! Terry Chen's flawless performance leads the audience through Dr. Ming Wang's personal emotional growth while it creates an opportunity for each moviegoer to examine their own emotional journey. The co-stars are perfectly cast to reflect the friends in real life who show their love by waiting patiently until the right time to give a gentle push. The interweaving of historical events and social circumstances of the 1960's, 1970's, and 1980's help viewers connect their personal life to Dr. Wang's life in China and the United States.
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10/10
A Journey of Vision and Resilience
sightisgreat25 May 2024
I watched this exciting movie tonight and couldn't help but write something about it. Sight is an evocative and inspiring biographical drama that chronicles the remarkable journey of Ming Wang, a gifted young man who rises from the depths of poverty in Communist China to become a pioneering eye surgeon in America. Directed with a keen eye for both historical detail and emotional depth, the film captures the essence of resilience, determination, and the indomitable human spirit.

The narrative unfolds against the tumultuous backdrop of the Cultural Revolution, a period marked by violence, upheaval, and widespread persecution. Young Ming Wang's prodigious talent and unyielding spirit become his ticket to a brighter future as he escapes the oppressive regime, seeking refuge and opportunity in the United States. The film deftly portrays his struggles and triumphs as he navigates the challenges of a new life, clinging to his dreams with relentless perseverance.

The heart of Sight lies in a deeply moving subplot involving an orphaned girl blinded by her stepmother. Dr. Wang's task of restoring her sight serves as a powerful metaphor for his own journey from darkness into light. This mission forces him to confront and reconcile with the haunting memories of his past, ultimately finding healing in the act of giving others the gift of sight.

The film excels in its character development, especially in its portrayal of Ming Wang. The protagonist is brought to life with a nuanced performance that captures both his vulnerability and his unwavering resolve. His interactions with the orphaned girl are particularly poignant, highlighting the shared pain of their pasts and the hope for their futures.

Visually, Sight is stunning, with the cinematography effectively contrasting the bleakness of Wang's early life in China with the vibrant, hopeful landscapes of his new life in America. The use of light and shadow plays a crucial role in symbolizing Wang's internal journey from despair to hope.

The screenplay, while staying true to the biographical nature of the story, does not shy away from the harsh realities of the Cultural Revolution. It provides a raw and honest depiction of the era, grounding Wang's personal story in a broader historical context that adds depth and resonance to his achievements.

Sight is more than just a biographical film; it is a testament to the power of vision-both literal and metaphorical. It is about seeing possibilities where others see obstacles, about the clarity that comes from confronting one's past, and about the profound impact one individual can have on the world. Ming Wang's story is a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us that even in the darkest times, light can prevail.

In conclusion, Sight is a compelling and heartfelt tribute to an extraordinary life. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate stories of human resilience and the transformative power of kindness and perseverance. Ming Wang's journey from an impoverished prodigy to a pioneering surgeon is a stirring reminder of what can be achieved when one dares to dream and has the courage to follow through.
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10/10
Inspiring!!
sabrina-5918225 May 2024
This movie both touched my heart & stirred my spirit! I felt the pain of his past loss & also celebrated his overcoming victories. I think this is a story all should see & children should be watching movies like this I'm school to understand & build appreciation for history, for the sacrifices immigrants (who came legally) have made to make a life in America as a free person! Not a dry eye during certain scenes. Big kiddos to the cast, crew & production team who made this film.

This story is the exact kind of life that those, who we honor on Memorial day for their ultimate sacrafice, died for!!
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9/10
An Inspiring Story of Faith, Perseverance, and Changing Lives
jeralynnk26 May 2024
Sight is an amazing film that beautifully depicts the inspiring story of Dr. Ming Weng. Against all odds, this movie shows how God brought Ming from humble and turbulent beginnings in China to America, where he became a revolutionary eye surgeon who has given the gift of vision and hope to countless children.

While the movie may not explore every detail of Ming's spiritual journey, it artfully plants seeds of faith through cinema in a clever way. Don't let any naysayers dissuade you - this film will make you laugh, cry, and walk away with a new hero in Dr. Ming Weng. His story of perseverance, faith, and making a true difference in the world is incredibly inspiring. I highly recommend watching Sight - it's an amazing cinematic experience!
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10/10
Touching story narrated in a cinematic way!
bulkwarrior26 May 2024
I don't want to go over the plot. But let me tell you, it's a great story. You have to see it yourself. It's sorta like american dream. Success is not defined by how rich you are, but how much you can help those who are desperately in need. A lot of us are in a similar situation, growing up in an less ideal environment, but with big dreams to change the world and help others. But very few of us actually achieved our childhood dream. This movie shows how a humble character, through years of diligent work, fulfilled his childhood inspiration. Please go see this movie if you haven't, and get emotional like I did.
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10/10
Powerful
feller58-74-34294125 May 2024
....Incredible intensity and power. Best watch of the last ten years. I loved the historical back ground on China. It was motivational to see what the doctor overcame both academically as well as emotionally. Finally we have a movie that portrays a male role model worthy of emulation. Finally we have another movie that portrays the love and commitment of parents as well. I wiped my eyes throughout the entire movie. Very very well done. It was also beautiful craftsmanship. Angel has dialed this in. I'm happy to pay it forward for others to have the experience of watching a positive movie that doesn't have to resort to F-Bombs or sex scenes to get a point across.
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