The Hidden Face of Suicide

“... a stark, deeply moving, honestly heartfelt documentary...”

Toula Foscolos, The Monitor

“...goes behind the veil of silence... ... and concludes that healing demands an end to silence..”

John Griffin The Gazette

“In trying to understand that silence, Silverman created a touching film that raises awareness...”

Anthony Bonaparte, The Suburban

“It is an important message... that the community itself needs to embrace another way of thinking about the shame, stigma, and pain of suicide on those left behind…”

Dr. Jaswant Guzder Director Institute of Community and Family Psychiatry

“Your film was so powerful and so beautiful. It was difficult

to watch because it brought up some sad events from the past, but it was

important to give voice to suicide. I really can't find words to tell you

what a contribution you have made. Thank you.”

Lorrie Blair, Associate Dean Academic and student affairs Concordia University

“Having lost three family members to suicide and as one who has contemplated death (and considered suicide) often and at length, I’m so thankful to see a space opened for discussion of the subject. I believe that such a space detracts from the suicidal impulse…”

Elizabeth, student

“Heavy, like a loaded gun. Because physically a bullet doesn’t weigh that much, it’s the power that’s so heavy. I’ve grown up in a neighbourhood here I’m one of the lucky ones, I have lost a friend to suicide, have had a friend who attempted several times, and I once tried as well. It is nice to finally see the taboo broken. It is so important not to treat suicide as a disease and you have succeeded.”

Dan, age 21

“A beautiful act of courage and deeply intimate communication. Many, many people should see this.”

“I want to thank you for making a film about the survivors..It was amazing

seeing the auditorium filled to capacity. I'm happy I forced myself to walk

through the door..”

“… the video is miraculous both in the process it shows and in how it manages to show it. … This video's healing power reaches beyond people who have direct experience with suicide… ” Guy, poet

The Story Within

“Artfully shot, up close and intimate, participants are witnessed in their processes of

healing and change. Participants transform the studio space before our eyes into a colorful and rich liminal environment using paper mache, fabrics, twigs and clay to fashion their own characters and create masks and costumes inspired by myths and fairytales. The film’s music, also composed by Silverman and the musicians, creates a rhythmic and encouraging heartbeat with drums, lyrical flute and guitar, accompanying storytellers on their mythic journeys.”

Review in Dramascope 2005