2002
Distributed by Aquarius Health Care Videos, 18 N. Main St., PO Box 1159, Sherborn, MA 01770; 888-440-2963
Produced by Rites of Passage
Director n/a
VHS, color, 36 min.
Adult
Death and Dying, Psychology
Reviewed by Hope Marie Cook, Curriculum Center Librarian, Eastern Connecticut State University
Recommended
This video articulates the stages of grief experienced by two sets of parents after the unexpected passing away of their children one by accident, and the other by suicide. The two separate narratives illustrate, in a reflective mode, the life of each child before the tragic events remembering various aspects of their behavior while relating the hopes, dreams, and expectations for each one. The stories culminate with each family moving forward, accepting the fact that death is a part of life.
The video includes no spoken words just lines of script and still photos of each family member. Various types of music are added during the length of the video; the choice of music is dependent on the mood of the scripted dialog. It would have been a welcomed addition to be able to hear the voices behind the narration. The selection of audio and the mention of "God" and "Heaven" in the text is a bit "preachy" and may be offensive to some who do not share the same religious beliefs. An abrupt ending to the video may surprise those viewing as it concludes with a final scripted line that states, "I miss you but, I'm going on now and moving forward with life." A "To be continued" message appears leaving the viewer in limbo.
Turning Toward the Morning is recommended to be used with additional resources. If purchased, it would be an appropriate addition to an academic, public library, or Hospice support collection