At the beginning of To Be or Not To Be, two mothers wonder if there is a place in the world for their two sons. Isaac Larsen and Willie Smith have Down syndrome. Eventually the two are admitted to a "regular" elementary school program and the film then follows Isaac and Willie through their last year before sixth grade graduation.

There are big questions to be answered. Can the two find a way to participate intellectually with their "normal" peers and will the other children accept them as part of the class? Or will the addition of these two add a crushing burden onto teachers who already have a full slate and take valuable time from other students? The film goes into the classroom to find answers, then follows all the sixth graders as they mount an ambitious production of Shakespeare's "Hamlet", in which both boys have roles.

During the final performances of the play a crisis arises and its resolution provides unexpected answers to many of the questions surrounding the boys' inclusion. In the end, this is a story of compassion and expanding horizons for everyone involved.italtextitaltext

"Whether you have questions on inclusion or you believe in inclusion, this film is required viewing...provides many insights and touches your heart. This reviewer gives this film the highest ratings." Connie Nink, U.P.D.C., Utah State Office of Education

"Well done!...the film will be very helpful for parents, teachers and children..." Denise Marshall, Director of Information, TASH, a national organization for the disabled

"...an excellent addition to Down Syndrome parent organization libraries." Julie Anderson, Editor, the Down Syndrome News

"...embodies the essence of what education should be...a great reseource for all educators." Linda Nicholes, Inclusion Specialist, the Salt Lake School District

Western Psychological Association 2007