Do mentally competent seniors have the right to neglect themselves and their surroundings to the extent that they offend the community? What should be done when reclusive or eccentric seniors refuse help? Do government agencies have an obligation to intervene?

Mr. Nobody sensitively addresses these questions by focusing on quirky 65-year old, Jack Huggins. Jack has lived alone in his family's house ever since the death of his parents. A bachelor, he lavishes affection on a menagerie of cats. The house is crammed with discarded appliances collected from garbage cans.

Jack's troubles began when his neighbors complained to the Health Department about the condition of his house. Health officials came and carted away his "junk". For a time Jack was certified incompetent and his financial affairs were monitored by a state-appointed trustee. He deeply resented this interference, having always functioned independently. "I never owed a person a cent and now I'm being treated like Mr. Nobody," he protested. Finally a senior advocacy agency had him re-assessed by a psychiatrist.

In no other film have these legal, ethical and human issues been addressed so clearly and poignantly.

User's Guide available.

"Health care and social service professionals will be stimulated to search for constructive solutions. Highly recommended." - Landers Film & Video Reviews
"Broaches the topic of the elderly with tact and sensitivity." - Cinema Canada
"Highly recommended for college and for general audiences." - Choice

National Council on Aging, 1990
Gerontological Society of America, 1989
Blue Ribbon, American Film & Video Festival, 1988