I had often thought of making a documentary film about childhood illness in the traditional documentary format, with a film crew following and interviewing children. Eager to develop the project, I decided I would write my research paper for my WR 150 class “Documentary Film: A Global Perspective” as a proposal for this film.
As I began to research films like Maidentrip and Born Into Brothels, which both put cameras into the hands of the subjects, I realized the possible benefits of allowing children with life-threatening illness to tell their own stories.
From there I began research filmmaking as art therapy for ill children and found a major gap in the literature. With that, I knew I had a niche to fill. It was an inspiring experience to feel like I was actually contributing to the field, as opposed to just rewriting what has already been created. I am looking forward to developing this project further and am thankful for my experience in WR 150.
LAUREN KESLER is a member of the College of Communication’s class of 2016, studying Film and Television. She would like to thank her parents for being a pediatrician and a nurse, so that they could pass on just enough of their passion for sick children to inspire her to develop this project. She would also like to thank Professor Milanese for believing in this paper even when Lauren came to office hours ready to “destroy the entire thing.” Lauren would also like to mention that if you happen to be a film producer, she would love to actually make this movie, so please be in touch.