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Tell us what you think >>
Selected submissions will be posted here regularly, so visit again to read more comments.
Many people want to help. Get information and contact Knightsbridge International directly through their Web
site >>
11/15/2007
Mary L. Ballard, MD
Enumclaw, WA
Our non-profit group, "Neighbors for Peace," watched the film last evening and were moved to donate and get involved. I personally found what I liked most about the three knights is that they are "real" people. They are not afraid to get out there and be who they are, they got angry, frustrated, kooky and wild, and expressed a lot of love and caring in the process. I am inspired to not be afraid to be who I am and give of my time and energy.
2/28/07
Bruce
Springfield, Illinois
We have been lucky to work with Knightsbridge to move medical supplies and equipment to many of those in need. They have been great to work with and we appreciate their dedication to helping make the world a better place.
2/26/07
Michael Carlin
Century City California
I would like to have Sir Edward Artis nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize...if you can help please email me at centurycitynews@earthlink.net
2/26/07
Arturo Pacho
La Crescenta, California
The documentary was truly inspiring and worth watching again and again. It has action, drama, politics, war, religion, etc. I was moved by the passion and dedication of three American Knights in Beyond the Call. As a Filipino American, I owe much to them for their humanitarian work in war torn Southern Philippines, and other islands. Their genuine concerns and respect for life were reflected in their sheer efforts to save the life of a baby with almost a grotesque head due to illness. I fully recommend this PBS special to others who missed it, and hope that PBS will reschedule it again.
2/26/07
Cori Stern
Los Angeles, California
Sir Ed is truly a knight in shining armor. He's changed my life by providing not only an example of how to live a noble life - but by teaching me the concrete, hands-on steps to effective assistance. Through his help several years ago, we provided emergency medicine to 1,000 orphans caught behind rebel lines in Northern Cote d'Ivoire in West Africa. Since that time he's consistently supported me in my efforts to do my part in the world. Now I do the same for other aspiring adventurer humanitarians. He is a living legend - and rightly so.
2/26/07
La Mesa CA
It would be wonderful if PBS broadcast Beyond The Call again and again. The documentary was educational and most interesting.This reflects the American Spirt of winning "Hearts and Minds". I believe Ed Artis should be considered as a candidate for the Nobel Peace Prize.To accomplish what he has done with such minimal assets is truly extraordinary.Incidentally the photography was superb.
2/12/07
Mary Palmer
Kennebunk, Maine
I was awed by the work of the three Knights of Malta featured in Beyond the Call. I had never heard of the Knights of Malta, am amazed that men are in this day and age willing to become knights and to take their oath seriously. The Knights oath and prayer are pledges to make a difference in serving humanity.
The documentary revealed the desperate needs of humanity and the terrible consequences of ineffective leadership that exist in our global world - and illustrates that individuals can make a difference.
2/5/07
Bill Morse
Palm Springs, CA
Having been an avid fan of the Belic Brothers since the premiere showing of their brilliant GENGHIS
BLUES at the Mill Valley Film Festival (in Video format then, prior to the 35mm release), it's a
great pleasure to see this most recent endeavor, exemplifying their continuing enthusiasm for
bringing to light unexpectly selfless histories, for which they are so uniquely qualified. The
heroic virtues so beautifully apparent in the spirits of this clandestine triumverate are the very
ones required of the filmmakers in approaching the unforeseeable possibilities at the outset of
their inspiring adventures.
Especially fascinating was the 'twist' of the intriguing near-death experience and the realization
of the most welcomed 'well done' affirmation of a life creatively engaged with the survival
aspirations of others. We should all be so enthralled with such a destiny! I applaud the diligent
tenacity of Adrian's efforts in making their story accessible to the widest possible audience. Would
that this one also could have received a much deserved Academy Award nomination. Bravo!
2/5/07
Bill Morse
Palm Springs, CA
The work that these guys are doing is absolutely amazing.
I run an organization that helps clear land mines in Cambodia and I know how difficult it is to
sustain this type of work.
Ed and his cohorts are an inspiration to all of us. This film should be required viewing for
everyone. Keep up the good work and keep showing this wonderful documentary.
2/5/07
Brian O'Neill
Wallingford, Ct.
I saw just a bit of "Beyond the Call" the other day. What a piece of work! How interesting and
humanitarian are the lives of the men featured in the film. Wow! I'm wondering, is it possible to
view the entire film on line. Thanks.
1/31/07
Nohl Martin Fouroohi
Kirkland, Washington
WOW! Belic and his team does it again. Thank you. Inspiring. This is exactly the kind of story we
want to feature at seattlecares.org. The heroes of the film - thank you! WHAT CAN YOU DO WHEN YOU
CAN'T SIT STILL? This film shows us...another story of 100% of donations going to the people as seen
in a short documentary on Google video "Rebuilding at 73 degrees" on the Pakistan earthquake. Learn
the whole story when SeattleCares.org is launched. We hope to have Belic and others like your
viewers & the film's heroes on our forums.
We are already talking in Seattle about how we can have the director, film and protagonist(s) to
town at NW Film Forum, perhaps. there are a concerted group of organizations interested to do this.
Universities, world affairs councils, and other groups may want to explore this - what better way to
inspire! THANK YOU PBS. I love your series Independent Lens!!
1/31/07
Michele McCormack
Scottsville, VA
I saw "Beyond The Call" this weekend and cannot stop thinking about the Knights and their work.
Thank you, Mr. Belic, for telling their story in such a profoundly excellent film. Thank you, PBS,
for airing the film and thank you to the Knights for inspiring me to do more. As the mother of a
3-year old it will have to be through prayers and writing checks!
1/30/07
Wow! Amazing! I am moved by these men, by their choices, by their commitment to this world we live
in. they are, truly, making a difference. Way to go.
1/29/07
Robbie G
Montana
Thank you so much for airing this documentary. I am moved beyond words as I learn about these three
men as they follow their calling. I have worked for nonprofits for years, and find the bureaucracy
limiting at best. These great souls are going straight to the need. I applaud them all, and want
them to know of my gratitude for all they do and who they are. I was very evoked to rethink how I
might do the same. Please re-show this so more people can see their work and get drawn to
participate in some way.
1/29/07
Logan Mackey
Burton, Ohio
I just watched your show on independent lens "beyond the call". I am impressed to see a group of
people devoted to helping others without a religious, or profit gaining agenda. As an American I
have become completely disillusioned, by phony charities, and religious groups more interested in
converting people then helping them. I thank you PBS for bringing this to my attention. Because of
your show, I am trying to contact "the Knights". And hope in some way to help them. And ask if you
can connect me with them.
1/29/07
Mike Hodges
Martinez, GA
I have known Ed Artis since we served together in Vietnam. The selfless efforts of Ed and his
dedicated band of Knights is nothing new. As a combat medic in Vietnam Ed always found time to help
the civilians who suffered in that war torn country. I have watched "BEYOND THE CALL" many times and
remain fascinated by the work of these brave Knights who never ask for anything for themselves and
never demand anything in return for their efforts. My absolute and sincere thanks to Adrian for his
work in telling the story of these true hero's of humanity.
1/29/07
Ed Brotemarkle
Los Angeles, CA
Having had the good fortune to have been introduced to Ed Artis by a friend and arranging a luncheon
for him and some of his KBI volunteers, I can assure you that what you see with them is exactly what
you get. As in the film, they did not solicit anything, but we collected enough to pay for the cost
of 1/4 container load. I would urge everyone to go to their website to see what you can do to
support them.
1/29/07
Joe Morra
Rockville, MD
This film speaks the nearly forgotten message of personal empowerment. How many times do people say
"But what can I do?" The answer is obvious--do whatever you can! If it means writing a check, do it!
But if it means challenging ourselves to take bigger steps to address the myriad issues in this
troubled world, this film proves we can, and must, do that, too. At the very least, spread the word
about BEYOND THE CALL, and inspire others as Adrian Belic and these crazy humanitarian knights have
inspired viewers like me! Thanks, also, to PBS for airing this beauty.
1/29/07
Sarah Mitchel
l
Monrovia, Ca
I was so impressed by these three men. The images were overwhelming and caused me to stop and think
how my own contributions have been lacking and how I could be doing so much more. I was inspired. No
politics no hidden agendas, no profit, no religious bullshit, simply real people helping people. It
was beautiful!
1/29/07
Joanne Smith
I, too, was deeply moved and impressed by the compassion and commitment of the three men this
documentary followed. My hat is off to PSB for selecting this show to be on their network. I can't
help but think of the folks behind the lens who are taking all the same risks, witnessing all the
same human suffering, and living with all the same sub-standard conditions as the subjects they are
filming. I have a deep admiration for those willing to put their own comfort, health and lives on
the line so we can sit in the safety of our own homes to view such heroic deeds and lives. How can
we continue to sit complacently in our affluent country, tut-tutting about the folks who are suffer
in other parts of the world but never go visit the elderly who are suffering in the nursing homes of
our own communities? Every one of us can make a difference where we live. Take a meal to a sick
neighbor; walk the dog or bring in the mail for a neighbor with a bad back; rake the leaves for a
senior citizen on your block; the list is endless because the needs around us are. Let "Beyond the
Call" be a turning point in our lives, not just good programming.
1/29/07
Marks Powers
Dallas, TX
Knightsbridge has to be "the most bang for the buck" for anyone making charitable donations. No
administrative fees and no salaries; it all goes to help those truly in need around the world.
Further, when Knightsbridge buys "discount/soon to expire drugs", every $100 you give turns into
$500. http://www.kbi.org/needs/index.html
1/29/07
Darnell
Beach Park, IL
My friends and I started a non-for profit that is designed to help recovering addicts and
alcoholics. The three of us have been doing this out of pocket for three years. We just recently
filed for our 501C3..Two of us are Viet-Vets. I watched this program spell bound. We aren't alike
either, sometimes we fight over silly stuff but we know our goal: always. I believe that
humanitarian organizations MUST help, outside the government. If they are religious. leave your
religion at home. The knights are incredible. This day and age we need things that reinforce the
humanity of our civilization. Western idealism depends on it....Otherwise their is no hope for the
civilized world. Bravo!
1/29/07
Prof. Charles Stapleton
Long Beach, CA
Thank you for showing Beyond the Call. Sir Edward and his fellow Knights give a new meaning to the
words "humanitarian" and "volunteerism". Sir Edward was a guest speaker in one of my classes at
CSULA and for the first time I can remember the students were speechless in awe of what they saw.
The work of the Knights serves as an inspiration to all and is an example of what America used to be
about, helping others less fortunate. It is too bad the mainstream media does not pay more attention
to the efforts of Artis and others doing good.
1/29/07
Martha Gadberry
Long Beach, CA
Unbelievable film! Please air it again so that I can have my children watch it as well. So many
people say that they care about the poor. And we so easily shed a tear at the sad images on we see
on television. But these men have put their money and their very lives where their mouths are. I
liked the line in the film "America is in a bubble." It's time to pop the bubble, folks. Let's get
out there and make a difference in the lives of some people. My family is ready to go. How about
you?
1/29/07
Jeanne Strigotte-Bowden
Los Angeles
I now have three new heroes to cherish and admire. I respect so much that their price for dinner is
not conversion from the culture and religion they were born to, to one that is foreign and most
often negative to their spiritual survival. I plan to offer whatever volunteer help I can. Please
replay this movie again and again.
1/29/07
Andrea Miller
These men are truly heroic. "Beyond the Call" as a title does not do them the justice they deserve.
They have taken such care and love of life (not just theirs) and spread it around the world in ways
that no government agency or NGO has ever done. My dreams will go with them, and my hopes for their
safe return from each outreach go to their families. Thank you for taking the plight of the world so
personally and making such a difference literally one person at a time.
1/29/07
Glen Biggers
Nashville, TN
Your recently viewed program "Beyond the Call" is the most compelling thing I've seen in all my
48yrs.
11/15/2007
Mary L. Ballard, MD
Enumclaw, WA
Our non-profit group, "Neighbors for Peace," watched the film last evening and were moved to donate and get involved. I personally found what I liked most about the three knights is that they are "real" people. They are not afraid to get out there and be who they are, they got angry, frustrated, kooky and wild, and expressed a lot of love and caring in the process. I am inspired to not be afraid to be who I am and give of my time and energy.
1/26/07
As a return Peace Corps volunteer, it is inspiring to me to see people who ACTUALLY make a
difference. None of this "I'll help you only if I can convert you" crap. I've seen more damage done
by people with good intentions but poor ideologies than I care to comment on.
These guys give me hope that not all Americans are complacent, that some actually DO something to
leave a positive impact on the world.
Very inspiring. PLEASE include this on the reruns / web-broadcasts!
1/26/07
carrie s.
boise, id
fantastic documentary. thank you to pbs and adrian belic for recording the knights and sharing the
real changes these men are making in some of the most ignored parts of the world. i believe the
knights are incredibly effective because of their simple respect for people.
the homework the knights complete before entering new countries about beliefs and cultures is a
testament to their passion and purpose. they observe the rules that are important to cultures and
peoples, and openly ignore the rules of established systems and agencies. the knights are the
anti--bureaucracy. they bring anarchy to a new level. they are inspiring reminders of the force of
good, and the importance of honoring the drive that tells us to make positive differences.
1/26/07
Your write up about Beyond the Call states, "In a Mother-Teresa-meets-Indiana-Jones adventure ...,"
but the film make reference not to Mother Teresa but to the Tsu Chi Foundation which was founded by
Dharma Master Cheng Yen (who has been referred to as the Asian Mother Teresa). Because Tsu Chi is
directly related to the work of these men, why not cite it? See www.tsuchi.org.
1/25/07
Tim Caffrey
Whitehall, Pennsylvania
I have never been so moved in my life! I don't always believe in angels as they are described in
religious books. Those books were written by men. I have seen angels in this movie and they still
walk the earth like all of us. Now it's time for us to get in line and follow their lead. I hope,
when my days are done on this planet, I can say I gave more than I received like these brave men.
1/25/07
Kristena Roder
Bella Vista, Arkansas
What an awesome documentary. I usuall enjoy Independent Lens, but this documentary not only showed
us what is going on in the world...places and people we dont really hear much of..and the NEEDS..Oh
My
But also that there are truly heroes still in this world.People that live religion without demanding
a following. People that could enjoy life doing "stuff" but instead are making a differnece in this
world.
Thank you all for touching the inner core of my being and causing me to realize that I must do more.
1/25/07
Sita Stulberg
Praise and Gratitude to these truly valorous 'Knights,' and the filmaker who cared enough to follow
and document their 'deeds,' as well as PBS, which has once again educated the public regarding
something both real and genuinely wonderful. While answering countless needs and prayers, they've
also provided an inspiration to the nation, and the world.
After working in third world countries where relief organizations often make a greater profit than
the relief provided, I'm thrilled to have emailed everyone I know the sites and information on KBI,
and this documentary.
God Bless All of you!
1/25/07
Nila H.
West Richland WA
What are my feelings about religious groups sponsoring humanitarian aid? I think it's wonderful. I
have sponsored one or two Compassion Children at a time for about fifteen years and feel the money
is well spent.
I just happened onto Independent Lens last night and was glued to it from start to finish.
I thank God for these men who forage into danger for the sake of those in so much need.
It was high adventure by such three unassuming personalities. I identified w/ Ed Artis' feelings
about not wanting to be associated w/ religious organizations for these trips. I saw the Gospel
being lived out in the actions of Artis, Laws, and Ratterman. There are times when religious words
just are not necessary.
Thank you for letting us see what determination and a wonderful combination of gifts and skills has
done in behalf of unfortunate but deserving people.
They appeared to be having the time of their lives.
1/25/07
Tootie Hagan
Santa Cruz, CA
I am inspired after seeing the work and the difference The Knights have made. I am now know that it
is about service...You know that is what makes me feel great.
It is about every small thing that we do in this world for betterment of all. Thanks....I want to
acknowledge the wives of these men who support their efforts andpermitting the space for them to
adventure out in sometimes dangerous area.
1/24/07
Brenda Reber
Wyoming, Michigan
I am haunted by the baby with water on the brain. I believe I will be haunted by this image until
the day I die. God bless you for your compassion. I really like the fact that you don't try to push
your religion on the people that you are trying to help. I was inspired by the Knights; this was a
powerful documentary and I hope it brings many others into the possibility of service to others. I
plan on contributing to their cause and I thank them for all their efforts.
1/24/07
Mohsen Ahmadian
Austin, Texas
Bravo, very inspiring and thought provoking. I loved the part about the "spreadsheet of good and bad
at the end of the road". The seeds you sow in the hearts and minds of the desperate children you
help multiply your good deeds. Excellent. Best wishes for all involved.
1/24/07
Melissa Jones
Vernon CT
I am so inspired by these men and their mission. I really liked how one of them stated that you
could accumulate a Mercedes or other wealth and then die. Which is exactly what is wrong with our
consumerist society who tries to find happiness in things acquired instead of deeds done. True
happiness comes from what we give to the world around us not what we take from it. In the end we are
not remembered by the wealth we have accumulated but by what we did to make the world a better
place. These men clearly understand and practice this principle everyday.
1/24/07
Brenda Du Faur
New Orleans, LA
A friend saw a special on how we throw tons of surplus medicines and supplies away. That needs to be
tapped in to the highest degrees. Religious missions of help. Gee. I mean many are such beautiful
people but it troubles me deeply on a level because in some ways it is deeply disrespectful. But
then again, Pearl S. Buck's parents were missionaries and I read much of her auto and she was such a
wonderful person...Again, no black and white but the tapestries of everything... the baby on the
mother's dead stomach and so much else was beyond tears- that could have been the film's name
too...Please humanitarian man get the root canal. Taking care of yourself is paramount. But,
needless to say, these three people and so many more who truly help are indescribably wonderful...
Oh, praise to the filmmaker...Author! Author! Deepest Bravo to all... deepest reality please
bestowed on world suffering...it is beyond inexcusable...that could also be the title of the
wonderful Independent Lens film...
1/24/07
Vicky Muli
Omaha, NE
Tell you what, as someone who grew up in war torn Uganda in the early 1980's, I appreciate
everything the Knights are doing, and wish so many other people would open their eyes beyond
themselves and look at the outside world, especially the children, who did not ask to be in the
situations in which they are. I wish the Knights were around those days when all I needed was a warm
blanket and warm dinner!! Keep up the good work and I hope many more can learn from your example of
altruism and selflessness!! To answer the questions, religious groups should be the first ones to
offer help since God looks at us all equally and requires us to help those in need. What the Knights
are doing should have been done long ago- deliver help directly in the hands of those who need it,
as opposed to the help we send, with so called overseers who spend half the project money on hotels
and expensive dinners before the projects start!! It cannot be done any better!!
1/24/07
David Sansing
Ethelsville, AL
I watched the "knights" Beyond the Call.......I was touched so deep its unexplainable.....I commend
their efforts and the work they so graciously do , without anything expected in return .I see so
many times ,the organizations, than say they want to help, but only to help themselves in profits
and such. The "knights" are true knights.. If we each, you and I, in our own way, put half as much
heart and soul into these efforts as they do....the world would be a greater place....the one small
step of one man, and then the next, and then the next......slowly ,but surely, it can be done....If
the "knights" would have me...I'm more than ready, willing and able....Are you?
1/24/07
Toledo, Ohio
I was educated, touched, and inspired by the Knights and their efforts. What can I do to help? I
have NO money to offer, but maybe there is something else I can do... What a rewarding way of life -
I want to feel that way too! But more importantly, I'd love to make an effect on the lives of people
who need our help so badly. Many other organizations say they help, but most of the money goes to
clerical and government filters. Thwese folks really find a way to dig in. Is there a way folks like
me can go there to assist without having to have a huge income or costly resources? Thanks you for
sharing the film with us on PBS.
1/24/07
David Miller
Chicago, IL
It was truly an inspiration to watch these gentlemen at work. I was amazed to see guys my dad's age
going to places where most wouldn't dare to go. The image that consistently remains in my mind after
watching this program are the children in these remote places. You can see their eyes and faces
light up when these men are there to help. Watching this program puts life in better perspective and
reinforces the idea of helping others (in the very least our own communities) is truly more
rewarding than always helping ourselves.
1/24/07
Anchorage, AK
Berkeley, Ca
The film is powerful. As one who tries to do little things to help, this depiction of true heros
inspires me beyond words. It is truly amazing to see real people doing real things to change lives
in our world. Thanks!
1/24/07
Ilsa Bartlett
Berkeley, Ca
Thank you so very much for this show! just this evening I was telling a friend how i live and how
far out of the 'norm'. This show lifted my spirit and fueled my continuing to lend a hand, as I am
able. i would certainly like to connect with these men and see how i can offer my skills and energy.
Long live independent lens for bringing this story of real 'holiness' to my screen and home. i have
studied many religions so that i might have the right tone and the right message as i walk with my
friends in this path of life.
1/24/07
The dangerous and difficult work Knightsbridge does is an example of how humanitarian aid can be
distributed to those who need it most without the bureaucracy which typically diverts funding to pay
for salaries, benefits, office space, fund raisers, advertising, postage, printing costs etc., which
are the norm in the U.S. Inspiring is their "bulls by the horn" approach to distributing essential
life saving relief. Can you imagine 50 people volunteering with this organization? This winter, my
son's grade school teacher requested parents donate medicine and school supplies for her to take to
Afghanistan. Concerned about her safety, my son asked her if there was still a war going on. We
realized that Americans like her and the three depicted in this film reveal how we can teach
compassion, peace and hope by example without judgment and without forcing political, ideological,
military, corporate or religious agendas on the aid re
cipients. Thank you for airing this film.
1/22/07
Nancy Mann
The Knights offer help to humans in need, without any favors back, whether it be the victim's
capitulation to political direction, religious choice or any other favors. Absent a bureaucracy,
these men can give to the most needy, without any recognition of their efforts. There are no labels
slapped on the boxes of food, clothing or medicine that say "we did this." In the true spirit of
giving, these men make a difference, little by little, but more importantly, offer hope and the
realization that there is goodness in mankind.
1/19/07
Leonard R Folz
Kettering Ohio
I have seen what Dr. Laws has done to help humanity. His constant strife to help is beyont th call
of duty. I have seen this presentation and love every minute of it don't miss it
1/10/07
Michael Carlin
Century City, Ca
I have traveled with Sir Edward Artis and Sir James Laws to Nicaragua on a relief mission. I
personally saw that the items collected went to the people in need. We delivered an
electro-cardiogram machine to the hospital in Bluefields and delivered antibiotics and other medical
supplies to various villages on the East Coast of Nicaragua during a time when the infra-structure
had been decimated by revolution resulting from the politics of the Cold War. The work that is
chronicled in this film is of the utmost importance to the world as it provides a true message of
the spirit of Americans. Each of us has the power to make a small change to the world and if Ed and
Jimās message takes hold and millions make the commitment to make a small difference then the world
will be a much better place. I am looking forward to participating in just such a world. Donāt miss
this film.
1/8/07
Howard Folz
Dayton, OH
I have worked with Dr. Laws for more than 20 years. I have had the pleasure of seeing
first hand the dedication to humanity served by all three men. Their skills and knowledg
e serve them well. I have seen this film at private viewings, and it is excellent.
Don't miss this one!
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